Suction cup vortex attractor

ABSTRACT

A vortex generating apparatus has the capability of attracting and removably adhering one or more solid objects, with the improvement of being able to removably adhere to non-planar surfaces, e.g., concave or convex surfaces and/or inside and outside corners. Generally, the apparatus comprises an impeller housed within a shell. The vortex attractor generates a vortical fluid flow in the form of a helical or spiral shaped flow. The fluid flow creates a low pressure region extending from the impeller end of the device. This low pressure region is contained by the walls of the fluid flow, thus directing the attractive forces toward a surface and minimizing effects of ambient fluid on the system. When the surface is part of a stationary object, wall, floor or ceiling, the vortex attractor may move toward and adhere to the surface. When the surface is part of a movable object, the vortex attractor may attract the object and maintain the attracted position.

CROSS REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is filed as a continuation-in-part ofapplication Ser. No. 09/316,318, filed May 21, 1999.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to a vortex generating apparatusand more particularly to an apparatus that produces a captive vortexcapable of attracting and removably adhering one or more solid objectsor removably adhering the apparatus itself to a surface. Specifically,improved embodiments are disclosed that allow for operation on bothcurved and flat surfaces.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The use of vortex forces is known in various arts, including theseparation of matter from liquid and gas effluent flow streams, theremoval of contaminated air from a region and the propulsion of objects.However, vortex forces have not previously been provided in a devicecapable of attracting itself to and/or removably attract other solidobjects, particularly objects that are not flat in nature.

[0004] Nagata U.S. Pat. No. 3,968,986 is related to an electromagneticdevice capable of attracting surfaces that have non-planar surfaceconfigurations. It comprises a magnetic assembly consisting of aplurality of relatively small movable magnetic pole members. In thiselectromagnetic lifting device, the respective magnetic pole members tobe excited electrically are assembled in a manner to permit verticalmotion relative to each other, so that the magnetic pole members canaccommodate themselves to the configuration, such as concave, convex orcurved surface of a ferromagnetic material and move in verticaldirection so as to freely contact the surface of the ferromagneticmaterial, thereby exerting an effective lifting force on theferromagnetic material. However, the system of Nagata is strictly astatic device. It does not allow any type of motion along the surface.Furthermore, electromagnets are heavy, complex and draw significantpower, making them inefficient compared to the present invention.

[0005] Related to the field of separations, Bielefeldt U.S. Pat. No.4,801,310 and related U.S. Pat. No. 4,848,991 teach methods of directingparticles tangentially-using centrifugal forces within a vortex chamber.A mixed fluid flow is directed tangentially into the cylinder of avortex chamber inclined toward the opposite end of the cylinder. Theprocess is said to separate heavier solid or liquid particles fromlighter gas or liquid flow. The lighter fluid flow is directed towardthe center of the vortex chamber and is collected with separate suctiontubes, while the heavier particles are directed to the outer peripheryand along the length of the vortex chamber for collection by a separateapparatus. In this system, the heavier particles are separated by thecentrifugal forces created within the vortex chamber separator. Aconstant stream of fluid passes through a vortex chamber. While theprocess may attract particles to the periphery of the vortex chamber,they are collected within the chamber and removed with a separatedevice. This is in stark contrast to the vortex apparatus of the presentinvention, which uses the vortex forces to attract or suspend objects ina controllable manner.

[0006] In addition to the centrifugal forces of vortex apparatuses, lowpressure regions created by vortex airflow have been taught whichattract fluid streams. For example, Barry U.S. Pat. No. 5,078,880teaches an apparatus for desalinating water. A vortex generatingapparatus consists of a discontinuous cylinder having a cross section ofa spiral. When a continuous stream of air is directed toward an inletopening in the spiral, the air swirls into the interior of the cylinderand creates a spinning tower of air, or a vortex. A water stream isattracted to the area of low pressure at the vortex and travels throughthe apparatus, with the salt being separated by centrifugal forces.Unlike the present invention, this apparatus is not with the use oflarge solid objects. It is not capable of attracting and removablyadhering objects for disposal, transport, mounting, or otherwise.

[0007] Nagai et al U.S. Pat. No. 5,879,040 is directed to a device,preferably for use with a robot, to attract an object having a curvedsurface. The device comprises a curved surface having planar first andsecond housings securely coupled to each other by fasteners, and asuction pad made of a synthetic resin material. A flange is sandwichedbetween the first and second housings, and a bellows is disposed in ahole defined in one of the first and second housings. The bellows areelastically deformable against the curved surface of the workpiece.Again, Nagai et al is a static system. It does not allow any type oftranslation along the curved surface. Furthermore, the need for a vacuumsystem (in the preferred embodiment, disposed within a robot) makes thesystem complex and cumbersome compared to the present invention.

[0008] Vortex vents are proposed to remove contaminated air from adefined region in place of conventional vents, where air is extractedfrom a general area. For example, the Vortex Technology Center at theUniversity of Houston proposes an apparatus that creates a swirlingsuction flow of air. A swirler is activated in a manner that draws airspirally upward through an exit area above. This swirling motion createsa reverse vertical flow near the axis of the swirler. This is said to bemore efficient and convenient than conventional hoods for removingcontaminated air from a directed region. However, this apparatus is notcapable of attracting and removably adhering objects.

[0009] Attempts have also been made to develop thrusters to verticallypropel an object using a vortex airflow. For example, the VortexTechnology Center proposes an apparatus which is capable of verticallyascending. This device, described in more detail herein, consists of achamber header, a cargo area and swirler. At the base of the chamberheader is a high pressure input source. Air enters through the highpressure input source to the swirler, which provides angular momentum tothe airflow. The airflow is forced out and around the body of thechamber header over diffusers. The lack of air pressure directly abovethe axis of the swirler creates a low pressure region, which is said tocreate upward lift. This apparatus differs from the vortex generatingapparatus of the present invention as it is not capable of lifting andholding objects, nor is resistance minimized by limiting overallairflow.

[0010] These apparatuses proposed by the Vortex Technology Center (thevortex vent and the vortex thruster) use the pressure differencescreated by the vortex airflow to provide a directed low pressure region.The devices above describe the “artificial tornado” theory inconjunction with the illustrations presented. However, while they may besimilar to a tornado because they use spirally flowing air to create apressure difference, they do not take advantage of the potential forcesthat may be generated by emulating the flow of a natural tornado.

[0011] A tornado is a strongly rotating column of air, or vortex,generally attached to the base of a thunderstorm cloud and extending toa tip. The pressure in the center of the rotating column is lower thanambient and becomes lower still as the tip of the column approaches andattaches the ground or a solid surface such as a roof. If the vortex orvortices are not connected to the base of a cloud, they are nottornadoes, but rather are termed “gustnadoes”. The devices proposed bythe Vortex Technology Center do not use the principles of a connectedtornado, but instead resemble an unconnected tornado.

[0012] Many devices and methods are used to attract solid objects orparticles. A common method is with the use of suction generated by avacuum. However, the vortex attraction force created by the presentinvention is distinguished from a typical vacuum impeller system. Theoperation of an impeller vacuum system is described and contrasted withthe present invention in further detail herein. Briefly, a motor drivenimpeller causes a circular fluid motion within its vanes, whereby thecentrifugal force or centripetal acceleration throws fluid out throughan exhaust. Pressure is reduced and fluid is drawn into the inlet andthrough the impeller blades to the exhaust. In contrast, rather thanproviding a continuous flow of fluid through the impeller the presentinvention prevents fluid flow radially through the spinning impellerblades, which improves efficiency over a conventional vacuum impeller asdescribed herein.

[0013] Other methods of attracting or displacing solid objects orparticles (on both large and small operational scales) include cranes,forklifts, springs, slide assemblies, hydraulics or electromagnets.However, the vortex generating apparatus of the present inventionprovides an efficient and versatile substitute for existing lifting ordisplacement methods and devices. For example, unlike electromagnets,the present invention is not limited to displacing or attracting objectshaving magnetic properties. Additionally, unlike traditional forkliftsand cranes, pallets, straps or chains are not required to lift objectsas the device presented herein may be configured to attract a surface ofan object. Other benefits will become apparent from the summary anddescriptions set forth herein.

[0014] Furthermore, devices using the invention herein may be configuredto attract itself to a solid surface. Prior methods of removablyadhering devices to solid objects include magnets and suction cups. Thepresent invention may replace these prior methods in applications wherecontrol, movement and predictability are added concerns.

[0015] Heretofore unknown to the present inventors is a device utilizingthe principles of a connected tornado for optimum attraction force.These attraction forces are generated by a vortex apparatus that may beused for attracting and removably adhering solid objects or forremovably adhering itself to a surface. The prior art is desolate of anapparatus utilizing the negative pressure created from a vortex force toaccomplish the objects relayed herein.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The present invention is directed to an efficient apparatuscapable of generating a negative pressure region that producesattractive forces in the form of a vortex flow (also referred to hereinas a “vortex attractor”). The vortex attractor may be used alone or inconjunction with other mechanical or electronic systems. The presentinvention has the functional ability to pull, suck, suspend, hold, liftand interrupt. The negative pressure regions also can adhere a vortexattractor to a surface. For example, an apparatus is provided that iscapable of pulling itself toward a surface or maintaining itself acertain distance relative to a surface. Furthermore, the fluids that maybe acted on by the present invention include any gas (e.g., air), liquid(e.g., water), any combination thereof, slurries, or any gas and/orliquid having solids and/or particulates dispersed therethrough.

[0017] These general uses and additional examples described herein areaccomplished by providing an apparatus comprising one or more impellersor vanes, and a shell. The impeller or impellers are positioned within ashell that has one open end, or impeller end. Materials of constructionfor a vortex attractor will vary depending on the desired application.

[0018] The shell comprises a containing ring or wall and a backplate forsaid wall. The containing ring or wall may be attached to the impellervanes and rotate with them or may be separate from the vanes (relativelyclose to the vane ends) and may be mounted on a stationary frame. Thebackplate may be connected with the impeller vanes and rotate with themor may be separate from the vanes (relatively close to the vanes), andmay be mounted to a stationary frame. The containing ring and/orbackplate may be sealed such that fluid cannot flow radially through thevanes or backwards behind them, or they may have apertures or vents inthem to allow for some fluid to circulate radially and behind. Theseapertures or vents preferably are configured such that sufficientsurface area remains upon the containing ring and/or backplate to actupon the fluid and induce a vortex flow. Furthermore, the apertures orvents may be controllable in order to rapidly reduce attraction. Thefluid flow through the vents may be used to power auxiliary functions orfor measurement control.

[0019] The impellers rotate about an axis within the containing ring.The axis typically corresponds with a driveshaft which passes throughthe backplate. Generally, the impellers rotate about a central axis ofthe containing ring or wall. However, this axis may be positioned otherthan centrally depending on the impeller configuration, the shape of thecontaining wall and the particular application. The impellers or vanesmay be incorporated in the containing walls, or may be separatelyrotatable. The vanes may be flat, curved or pitched and variousconfigurations are possible, as further described infra.

[0020] The device may optionally include a safety screen or ring, or mayhave a shield mounted on the vanes in a manner that does not obstructfluid flow in directions necessary for correct operation of the vortexattractor. Such shields are for safety purposes or to prevent thepossibility of obstructions within the vanes.

[0021] The shape of the shell may vary depending on aesthetics,functionality or efficiency requirements. One particularly useful effectof differing shapes of the shell is the variations in the shape if thefluid flow. The containing wall may have a plan view resembling acircle, ellipse, polygon or polygon having rounded vertexes or corners.The containing walls may be perpendicular to the backplate or may be atan acute or obtuse angle relative to the backplate. Furthermore, thecontaining walls may be straight, arcuate, U-shaped, V-shaped (with theopen portions of the “U” or “V” facing away from or toward the impeller)or S-shaped (which may also be in the form of a backwards “S”), forexample.

[0022] When the backplate is not connected to the impeller blades anaperture is provided for the driveshaft to rotatably pass through saidbackplate. If a completely sealed backplate is required, the driveshaftmay pass through sealed and lubricated gasket or bearing assembly. Thebackplate, whether connected to the impeller blades, or separate fromthem, may also contain one or more additional apertures or slits. Theseadditional apertures or slits may be provided to minimize weight, fordecorative purposes or to provide any desired functionality related tospecific configuration or application. These additional apertures orslits may be provided in order to generate external fluid flow forauxiliary functions or monitoring.

[0023] Moreover, it is not necessary that the backplate be planar. Thebackplate may be convex or concave, or it may have a shaped of a cone,pyramid, truncated pyramid or other polyhedral. Additionally, alternatedesigns may incorporate a backplate which is asymmetrical or irregularwith respect to the vanes. Any three-dimensional shape that does notinterfere with the impeller action may serve as the backplate.

[0024] The driveshaft may be powered by any conceivable means, such asAC or DC electric motors, gas or fuel combustion motors, steam power,compressed gas or air, flywheel or a mechanical winder device. Thedriveshaft may be of any length or shape, and it may be flexible,allowing for optimum positioning and maneuverability of the vortexattractor. Power may be provided directly from the motor to thedriveshaft, or by one or more drive belts or chains connecting thedriveshaft to the motor. Optional gears may be provided which allow thedriveshaft to reverse the direction of rotation or allow for the speedof the impeller to be controlled at a constant motor speed. Alternativedrive mechanisms may also be used, such as water, wind or magneticarrangements. Furthermore, the power source may also provide energy toadditional devices fixed to the vortex attractor.

[0025] Preferably, the containing ring height should be similar to thatof the impeller. A stationary containing ring may be made to extendabove the height of the impeller so that when the vortex attractor pullsan object or pulls itself toward a surface, the edge of the containingring contacts the object or surface rather than the blades of theimpeller. Alternatively, the containing ring wall height may vary aroundthe impellers, for example, to provide a means to direct the vortexflow. Other arrangements may include a flexible or adjustable containingwall, so that when the impeller end contacts a non-planer surface,ambient fluid can be prevented from entering the system.

[0026] The forces of the vortex attractor are generated by the spinningimpeller or impellers which act upon fluid entering from the open end ofthe vortex attractor. Fluid is drawn in through the region about theaxis of the impellers, and it is forced through the impellers to thewalls of the containing ring. The fluid flows tangentially from thecontaining ring in an upward direction. Generally, the path of the fluidflow resembles a spiral, with a loop that travels through the center ofthe spiral to the region about the axis of the impeller. The directionof the spin does not matter, as the only change would be the directionof the fluid flow and the same attractive forces are generated asdescribed herein. The fluid flow creates a low pressure region near theaxis of the impeller. Fluid is forced back toward the impellers due tothe loss in velocity caused by resistance encountered from ambient fluidoutside the path of fluid flow. This spiral path having a return loopthrough the spiral is continuous while the impellers spin. If theimpeller velocity is decreased or increased, the distance of the fluidflow from the containing ring and the speed of the fluid flow willaccordingly vary.

[0027] A desirable feature of vortex attractor is that the flow throughthe system is limited, as there is not a separate fluid intake andexhaust. The fluid circulating through the vanes of the impelleroriginates from the region about the impeller axis and within theconfines of an imaginary frustum or cylinder extending away from theimpeller end of the shell rather than from a separate inlet. Thiseliminates the inefficiencies created by methods of the prior artbecause the system need not continuously cause a fluid flow from anintake through an exhaust.

[0028] A protective screen, plate or specific shell geometry may beapplicable to position a shield in front of the impeller blades tominimize injury and to prevent objects from striking the impeller. Thescreen may comprise concentric circles or a spiral screen. Otherarrangements include covering the region above the impeller blade pathwith a separate ring plate or with certain shell geometry. For example,the containing wall may be fabricated having a portion that extendstoward the impeller axis to protect the vanes. Preferably, such a plateor extended portion allows fluid to flow through the region about theaxis of the impeller, and allows fluid to exit through the region nearthe containing ring walls.

[0029] The invention described herein generates a low pressure area thatextends from the impeller end to the object or objects to be attracted(or object being attracted to). The low pressure region between theimpellers and the object is maintained by the impeller motion. Thevortex attraction forces increase as the object moves closer to thecontaining ring, as there is less resistance from ambient fluid.

[0030] One particularly useful feature of the vortex apparatus is thatthe distance from the impeller blades to the surface has an approximatelinear relationship with the impeller operating power requirement andthe attractive forces generated. The vortex power increases linearly asdistance increases, and the vortex lift decreases linearly as distanceincreases. This linearity (over part of the range of distances from theimpeller blade) provides predictability and efficiency in applicationswhere the vortex apparatus of the present invention is maintained acertain distance from a stationary or non-stationary surface. Objectsmay be suspended a distance from the vortex attractor (rather than beremovably adhered), or alternatively, the vortex attractor may besuspended a distance from a stationary surface. For optimal suspension,a responsive control system is provided which senses any change whichmay effect the required impeller speed and accordingly adjust the speed.Moreover, the linearity proves useful for control mechanisms, motionsensors, measurement devices or speed detectors. Outside fluid effects,such as wind, turbulence or deterioration of the fluid flow frommovement of the vortex device, should be taken into consideration whenfluid is between the impeller and the surface (note that this is not amajor factor when the object is removably adhered to the vortexattractor, as little or no additional fluid flows from the ambientsurrounding acts upon the system).

[0031] Furthermore, the pressure differential (and hence the attractiveforces) may be varied for certain applications (i.e., maintain separatedistances between the impeller end and the surface) by changing thespeed of the impellers. The impeller speed can be changed by varying thepower input or with a gear transmission system. Additionally, a geartransmission may also relate power from the impeller power source toauxiliary devices.

[0032] The principles of the vortex flow and reduced pressure areapplicable in multiple applications, on scales ranging from microscopicto very large. The vortex attractor may be used alone, in combinationwith wheel or tracks, on a conveyor belt, etc. Various devices may beattached to the vortex attractor for sensing, measuring, recording, etc.A warning system may be provided for vortex attractors operating on alimited power source, such as a battery, to prevent the attractor fromfailing while in use. Furthermore, the vortex attractor may becontrolled manually, remotely by computer, conventional remote controlor via on-board software. The controlled elements of the vortexattractor may include impeller speed, by variations in power inputand/or by gear changes, impeller blade distance from the impeller end ofthe containing ring or outer shield or power source variations.

[0033] A substantially modified vortex attractor comprises an impelleror vanes and a shell having an inner shield and an outer shield. Thevanes may be mounted to a backplate, or an impeller assembly may beseparately rotatable relative to the inner shield. The impeller ispositioned within one end of the outer shield (the impeller end), andthe inner shield is concentric to the outer shield, and generallyprevents fluid flow within the center of the portion of the outer shieldbehind the impeller assembly. Fluid is directed through the center ofthe impellers and spirals out through the region between the innershield and the outer shield. Attractive forces are generated toward theimpeller end of the outer shield due to the vortex flow extendingtherefrom.

[0034] However, the basic vortex attractor described thus far suffersfrom reduced performance whenever there is a deviation in the flatnessof the surface to which it is attracted. Therefore, an alternateembodiment is proposed in which air blown from a series of jetsestablishes the vortex attractor air pattern. The pattern of nozzles maybe curved to conform to a surface. Thus, this alternate embodimentallows full operation while traversing an inside or outside corner.

[0035] Furthermore, an additional embodiment is offered which includesthe ability to traverse curves and corners, with the additional featureof vacuum attraction. Such a system can selectively operate in a vacuumattractor mode (as opposed to vortex attractor mode) to assist intraversing corners. Vacuum attraction is a simpler method of traversingcorners by simply utilizing a flexible skirt that can generate areasonable seal throughout the corner, thus maintaining a vacuum.

[0036] Therefore, according to the present invention, an efficientdevice is provided that uses the low pressure zone created by a vortexfluid flow to attract objects or attract itself to a flat or curvedsurface. This device may be employed for numerous purposes, such asindustrial transport, underwater lifting, electromagnet applications,switches, sensors, detectors, toys and other applications where objectsor tools are displaced and/or maintained in a suspended or removablyadhered position.

[0037] Lifting Devices

[0038] In the field of industrial transport, a vortex attractor may beused in place of or in addition to a crane or other hoisting machinery.It can be used to lift, maintain, and move objects across a factory orwarehouse. This type of vortex attractor may be particularly useful inlifting, maintaining and/or moving delicate objects such as glass panes.Furthermore, the object lifted may have a non-planer surface. Asdescribed further herein, the vortex attractor requires less energy thanvacuum systems. Additionally, unlike a magnet or electromagnetic crane,magnetic properties of the attracted object are not relevant.

[0039] An assembly including one or more vortex attractors may besuspended from a ceiling track system or other suspended transportsystem capable of traversing about an area. For example, an extendableand retractable cable may be suspended from a ceiling track systemwithin a plant that travels in the x axis and y axis. A vortex attractorhaving the impeller end facing the ground is provided at the oppositeend of the cable. When the attractor is positioned no more than somemaximum distance (based on the weight of the object, the size of theattractor and the impeller speed) over the object to be moved, theimpellers are activated. This causes the object to rise, preferablycontacting the impeller end either the containing ring or the outershield. The track system may then be activated to traverse the plant andthe cables may be extended and retracted as needed. Alternatively, theobjects may be suspended a distance from the vortex attractor. Insituations where a suspended object is—See discussion infra regardingvortex attractors including wheels or ball bearings capable oftraversing a wall or ceiling. moved, the effects of the changed fluidflow must be considered in maintaining the proper impeller speed. Notethat this is not a factor when the object is removably adhered to thevortex attractor, as no additional fluid flow acts upon the system. Whenmoving a load attached to the vortex attractor, there are no adverseeffects on the low pressure generated (assuming the minimum impellerspeed for that load is maintained). In an alternate arrangement vortexattractors may be used in place of the overhead track system to traversethe ceiling while suspended vortex attractors perform the abovementioned lifting functions.

[0040] Vortex attractors are also applicable as substitutes forforklifts or on flatbed trucks with winch or overhead forklifts attachedfor loading and unloading. This may be similar to the suspended systemsdescribed above, using a boom in place of or in conjunction with atracking system. However, other arrangements are contemplated, includinga rigid arm system, for instance, where the vortex attractor is attachedto the extremity and the arm is capable of moving, extending andretracting. Often, the objects lifted by these various arrangements arefragile or easily subject to scratching or marring from conventionalforklifts. A vortex attractor may perform the tasks of a forklift orsuspended forklift capable of moving large delicate objects withoutbreakage or scratching. This is accomplished, for example, by providinga non-marring surface on the impeller end of the containing ring orouter shield, providing a cushion between the vortex attractor and adelicate object.

[0041] Similarly, a vortex attractor is useful as a lifting device forphysically handicapped people. The forces required to displace accessplatforms and chair lifts in vehicles or homes may be provided by asuspended vortex attractor or a vortex attractor attached to a boom.Furthermore, a lifting device may be created which comprises a vortexattractor attached to a flexible or non-flexible pole to aid in liftingcommonplace objects such as cups, boxes, etc.

[0042] The driveshaft of a vortex attractor may be flexible. Such adriveshaft configuration may be incorporated as a portion of a suspendedattractor (at the attractor end of the cable), as a portion of orsubstitute for an attached arm, or on a hand-held device. This isuseful, for example, on an assembly line, where the vortex attractor canmaintain an object in a desired position while is mounted in place.Another use of a vortex attractor having a flexible driveshaft is as atool for holding or retrieving an object or workpiece in a tight area.For example, a mechanical snake having an attractor on one end may bedirected through a wall or ceiling. Optimally, sensors and remotecontrol capability are included for enhanced accuracy.

[0043] Furthermore, if a screen or protective ring is placed in front ofthe impeller end, the vortex attractor may be used to lift piles ofobjects which would otherwise lodge within the impeller assembly. Theobjects would instead adhere to a screen, preferably constructed ofconcentric rings, and may be removed from the vortex attractor byreducing impeller velocity. For example, loose objects may be adhered tothe screen until the flow is sufficiently obstructed to preventattractive forces.

[0044] Also, various waste can be collected using a vortex attractorshell comprising an inner shield and an outer shield. The impellers insuch an arrangement are preferably protected by a ring or plate, and thecenter of the impeller assembly remains open. Waste is collected by thevortex flow and travels through the impellers and may be discharged intoa separate collecting bin. Alternatively, the inner shield may serve toboth guide the flow (about the outside wall of the inner shield) andcollect the debris.

[0045] Objects can also be lifted underwater using a vortex attractor. Avortex attractor will provide a low pressure region near a surface of anobject and adhere itself to the surface. This is very useful forremoving objects underwater or within other fluids without disturbingthe ground under the object, thereby preserving the underlying terrain.

[0046] Toys and Amusement

[0047] In addition to industrial and commercial uses, the vortexattractor of the present invention can be the core of various toys. Assafety is a major concern with children, a safety plate, ring or screenof concentric members may be mounted on the face of the impeller end. Alifting toy can be created, which is capable of lifting and holding anobject. The forklift and crane replacements described above may berecreated on a smaller scale for various toys and models. A vortexattractor may be provided at an end of a rigid or flexible arm or handleto create a toy in the form of a hollow tube or wand, which, when theimpellers are caused to spin, creates a low pressure area capable ofattracting and holding objects. The hollow tube may also be flexible,with the vortex attractor at one end driven by a flexible driveshaft.This type of lifting toy may be incorporated in various games includinggames of skill, or to improve hand-eye coordination and response time. Avariation of a lifting toy may be also included with building block andmechanical model sets, including sets using interlocking blocks and/orseparate fasteners.

[0048] This lifting arm or handle can also be incorporated on toys suchas dolls or action figures so that the toy is capable of holding anobject without having predetermined grooves or openings. A toy may becreated which can throw an object by providing arm motion coupled withtimed vortex release of an attracted object. Additionally, vortexattractors may be provided at the feet, hands, knees or posterior ofdolls or action figures, allowing it to stand, sit or kneel in anyposition, and more complex toys and models may be created which cancrawl, walk, run or sit. With sufficient draw force is provided by thevortex attractors, the toy may be capable of walking or crawling acrossa floor, up an incline or vertical wall, and across a ceiling.

[0049] Various positions of vortex attractors will increase the crawlingor climbing capabilities. For example, a slithering toy resembling assnakes or worms may be created using multiple vortex attractors.Essentially, several attractors are placed within a flexible tube atvarious positions and facing various directions. The attractors may becontrolled in a pattern or randomly by on-board software or manually beremote control. The toy can slither across a floor, climb walls andscale ceilings. Additionally, various types of insects, arachnids,reptiles, dinosaurs, mammals or fictional creatures may be createdhaving vortex attractors at the extremities and tails of the respectivecreature. Controls, on-board or remote, allow the creature to move byactivating, reversing and deactivating certain attractors. Optionally,vortex attractors on other positions, for example the backside orunderside to allow the creature to lay flat, roll over, etc. Any of theaction figures, creatures, etc. described may be made on a larger, evenlife size, scale using the attractor positioning and activation tosimulate movement. These are useful for various entertainment purposessuch as movies and other displays, but in certain applications may alsoprove to be efficient devices to transport various tools and materials.

[0050] A toy car, truck, boat, train, etc. may also be created with avortex attractor. One type of toy car comprises wheels and one or morevortex attractors having impeller ends substantially perpendicular tothe plane of the wheelbase. The wheels may also be powered byconventional means. The toy car will “propel” if the vortex attractor isplaced toward a wall or other solid object. Vortex actuation, power,steering, or other functions may be controlled remotely or with on-boardsoftware. When the vortex attractor is actuated, the toy car will movetoward a wall or object opposite the impeller end because of the lowpressure region created between that surface and the toy car. Byactivating an additional attractor on the toy, for example on theopposite end, the toy will “propel” toward another wall or object.Several of such toys can be combined with a toy bumper car rink, wherebumper cars are simulated with the additional feature of attracting toycars to each other and maintaining the captive state.

[0051] Another type of toy car, truck, boat, train, etc. may include avortex attractor having an impeller end facing the plane of thewheelbase. The wheels (or rollers, tracks, casters or ball bearings) mayshare the power source of the impeller or may operate from a differentpower source. If certain types of casters or ball bearings are provided,the toy car may traverse omnidirectionally over a surface, rather thanseparately in the x-axis direction and in the y-axis direction. Thevortex attractor placed essentially on the underside of the toy carallows it to climb up a wall and across a ceiling when the attractiveforces are actuated. This type of device, also referred to as “climbingattractors”, are described further in relation to other applications.

[0052] Any of the toys and entertainment devices described may be usedalone or in conjunction with a board game, story, book, or computer orvideo game. For example, for use with a computer game or story, thepower input may be measured and other sensors included on the toy withappropriate peripheral hardware and software to relay the informationabout the toy's position to the game or story. Also, various mazes andlabyrinths may be created by using the principles of the bumper cars,described supra, with multiple vortex attractors on a multi-sided shape(movement similar to creatures) or with various climbing attractorsdescribed supra.

[0053] A vortex attractor may also be used to suspend an object from aceiling or wall. For example, an attractor may be provided that adheresto a ceiling and includes a cord or flexible attached to an object. Theobject may be of any variety, such as toy airplanes, helicopters, rocketships, flying saucers, lighted or Illuminated forms and still frame andvideo cameras. The cord may be controlled to spin the object, or aflexible gooseneck attachment may be provided.

[0054] On a larger scale, may of the above described toys may be createdfor props and simulated scenes in the movie and entertainment industry,museums, displays and other exhibits. For example, video cameras mayinclude a vortex attractor attached directly thereon or attached at theopposite end of a cord, rod or gooseneck. It may be positioned anywherein a set on a surface. Wheels or casters and various remote and/orcomputer controls are used to easily position the camera.

[0055] Props may also be hoisted, pulled, suspended or held by vortexattractors. For example, props or cameras may be suspended from aceiling by a device comprising one or more vortex attractors facing thewheelbase of a caster assembly having a flexible gooseneck extendingtherefrom, and a second set of one or more vortex attractors attached tothe opposite end (or, props or cameras may be affixed to the oppositeend by other means). The caster end can track up a wall, across aceiling and across a floor, moving the prop in any desired direction andholding it in any desired position. The same device may be reused forother props, and there is no need to construct an extensive trackingsystem, thereby increasing speed and efficiency. Further, vortexattractors may replace booms in various applications.

[0056] Components

[0057] Vortex attractors may also be used as a component of anelectronic and/or mechanical device. For example, instruments containingcircuit breakers, relays, and other switches using electromagnets, maybe improved with the present invention. The role of electromagnets maybe replaced without generation of a magnetic field with a vortexattractor. For example components used in conjunction with magneticstorage such as computers may be improved with the elimination ofelectromagnets. The absence of a magnetic field allows such a componentto be located closer to magnetic storage media without fear ofcorruption.

[0058] Furthermore, the weight of circuit breakers, relays and othertypes of switches can be reduced by substituting vortex attractors forelectromagnets. Magnetic metals are not necessary. Instead, one or morevortex attractors may be provided which may be fabricated of lightermaterial such as paper, cardboard, wood, plastic blends, rubbercompounds, aluminum, etc.

[0059] Vortex forces are useful for operating switches. A vortexattractor mounted opposite a sliding gate can open the gate (by spinningthe impellers causing vortex attraction) and close the gate (by stoppingthe attraction). Changing the speed of the impeller to graduallyincrease and release the attractive forces of the vortex can alsovariably control the gate. Moreover, as discussed infra and supra, thepower input requirement and attractive force are in partial linearitywith the distance from the impeller to a surface. Thus with variationsin power input, precise distances of the switch may be achieved andmaintained and the speed of the switch in action may be controlled.

[0060] The present invention may also be employed in various types ofdoor and window mechanisms. A vortex attractor could be used to operatea lock or deadbolt. This would allow for simplified electronic controlof a structurally locking device. For example, a proximity switch usingthe vortex attractor can operate an aircraft door. The electroniccontrol operates to switch on and off the impeller, which draws thelocking mechanism toward it. Also, a vortex attractor could be used tocontrol a sliding door or window.

[0061] Removable Mounting Means

[0062] The attractive forces generated also may be used to removablyadhere a vortex attractor having an object fixed thereon to a wall orceiling. Security surveillance such as video, audio or motion sensors,including those described herein, is facilitated by use of the vortexattractor. Other sensors may be included for industrial surveillance,such as gas-detect, including specific chemicals (i.e., radon, carbonmonoxide, etc.), temperature, pressure, radiation, infrared,electromagnetic field, etc. These devices comprising a vortex attractorand a sensor may be removably adhered to any surface, and isparticularly useful in relatively inaccessible locations such as highwalls or ceilings. A vortex attractor may be used for surveillance inlocations where atomic or other radiation precludes human access such asnuclear reactors or for furnace inspection while the furnace is hot.

[0063] Other devices may be attached to a vortex attractor forfunctional or decorative purposes. A vortex attractor may be used totemporarily mount something to a wall or ceiling. For example,paintings, sculptures, advertising displays, shelves, projectors, masks,etc. may be adhered to a wall or ceiling with a vortex attractor. Avortex attractor may, for example, have a Velcro™ patch, a cord or ahook affixed thereon to adhere a decoration. Wall marring, holes andtape residue can be minimized. It may also be used as a base for avertical object such as a mannequin, coat rack, etc.

[0064] Climbing and Traversing Apparatus

[0065] Vortex attractors may include wheels, casters or tracks attachedfor numerous applications, including toys, inspection, surveillance,lifting, spraying or injecting, etc. (some applications are brieflydescribed supra). The wheels, casters or tracks may be powered by thesame source as the vortex attractor or a different source. Casters maybe provided which rotate freely and omnidirectionally, and typicallyprovide a well-known ball-bearing type construction that reduces thefriction as the wheels rotate. These types of casters provide smoothmovement and direction change, as opposed to separate movement in thedirections of the x-axis and y-axis.

[0066] A traversing apparatus may also have the capability to traversesharp angles, for example, from a wall to a ceiling. This can beachieved by increasing the power to the impeller, as the distance fromthe surface to the vanes increases as an angle is traversed, or withvortex attractors mounted in various positions on the climbing device.Multiple vortex attractors are employed generally having impeller endsfacing multiple wheelbases. Any functional shape may be used, such as asphere, cylinder, cone, cube, prism, pyramid, truncated pyramid,tetrahedron, parallelepiped or rectangular parallelepiped. Wheelbasesare provided on any or all faces (or portions of arcuate surfaces, as inspheres, cones and cylinders). Or, utilizing the alternative embodimentof the present invention that allows travel on curved surfaces, only asingle attractor unit would be necessary to traverse along sharp angles,e.g., from a wall to ceiling.

[0067] This type of apparatus, a traversing vortex attractor, may becontrolled remotely or by on-board software. Essentially, the climbingor traversing vortex attractor may traverse a wall or ceiling byactivating both the wheels and the vortex attractor. The vortex forcesadhere the apparatus to the wall or ceiling and the amount of attractiveforces may be varied remotely or automatically via on-board software. Atraversing vortex attractor is also useful underwater or submerged inother fluids.

[0068] A traversing vortex attractor may be used for both large andsmall applications. To illustrate, an industrial traversing vortexattractor may include a cargo area for transporting materials orequipment up walls. Such an industrial use is applicable in situationswhere overhead lifting means are prevented, or when a versatile pick andplace machine is desired. Additionally, a traversing vortex attractormay be configured with an additional vortex attractor suspended via acable or other suspension means that can lift objects (as describedinfra).

[0069] Another device incorporates one or more miniature sensors and/ortools. This apparatus is appropriate for various purposes, such asinspections of both the outside and inside of pipes, tanks and otherapparatus, performing structural evaluations of concrete or masonrywalls, detecting atmospheric conditions at various heights, or remotecontrol security devices, for example. Tools provided may include pens,paint rollers, sprayers or brushes, cutting edges or tips or stampersfor drawing, painting, etching or imprinting various patterns on asurface.

[0070] Optionally, a warning signal may indicate that energy reservesare low, whereupon a controller may act upon that signal to prevent theattractive forces from diminishing and the apparatus falling.Alternatively, on-board software may be programmed to sense thediminishing energy and act appropriately, such as reverse direction forenergy replacement or shut down secondary loads.

[0071] Security surveillance devices such as video, audio or motionsensors, including those described infra, may be controlled with atraversing vortex attractor. Other sensors may be included forindustrial surveillance, such as gas-detect, including specificchemicals (i.e., radon, carbon monoxide, etc.), temperature, pressure,radiation, infrared, electromagnetic field, etc. These devicescomprising a traversing vortex attractor and a sensor may be removablyadhered to any surface and may freely move about the surface via humanremote control (assisted by cameras and/or sensors where required),remote computer control, or on-board computer control.

[0072] Various materials can be sprayed from a traversing (orstationary) vortex attractor. For example, a vortex attractor mayinclude one or more sprayers, jets or nozzles. Such a device may beused, for example, to paint a wall or ceiling by placing the vortexattractor on the surface and activating a rotating sprayer, wherebypaint can be spread. A paint (or other coloring solution, includingvarious types of invisible ink) supply may be carried by the vortexattractor, or may be separately fed through a tube. Sensors may be addedfor particular applications. For example, a vortex attractor includingwheels, a jet sprayer and a depth sensor may be used to locate and applypaint where existing paint is chipped.

[0073] In addition to spraying, materials can be injected from a vortexattractor. A traversing vortex attractor may be provided including aninjection means. This may have particular application in newconstruction or maintenance. For example, a joint of a wall may becaulked with a vortex attractor comprising powered wheels, casters ortracks, an injection means and a caulk supply (either attached or fedvia a tube). As with the sprayer embodiments, various sensors may alsobe incorporated. Such a device may be used to sense defects in a wall,as where an existing caulk or mortar joint is void, and accordinglyinject the appropriate material therein.

[0074] Any of these devices incorporating a traversing vortex attractormay be modified to perform functions underwater. For example, atraversing vortex attractor incorporating various sensors can besubmerged in a tank and may detect changes in the temperature, pressure,turbulence, etc. at various levels. Furthermore, a traversing vortexattractor may be used as a swimming pool cleaner and detritus collector.The low pressure region acts to both attract the apparatus to a solidsurface such as a wall or floor of the pool and to dislodge dirt andother debris from the solid surface.

[0075] Sensors and Detectors

[0076] Vortex attractors may also be used as motion detectors. Aspinning airflow could extend to an object suspended by the vortexforces. When the path of the spinning airflow is broken, i.e., by a footor a tire, the suspended object would be released due to the increase inpressure. This loss of attraction of the suspended article could trip analarm or trap, and may be automatically reset once the path of spinningairflow becomes unhindered.

[0077] The relationship between the power input and the distance betweena surface and the impeller is extremely useful for sensors anddetectors. For example, the distance of a surface or body may bedetermined by measuring the power input at that impeller position.Velocities, acceleration, drag, friction and turbulence may also bedetected in a similar manner. Utilizing this relationship, vortexattractors may replace other measurement devices in weather meters suchas barometers.

[0078] Another type of vortex attractor sensor can be used for windows,doors or glass panes. Essentially, for a window, a small vortexattractor driven by an electric motor is situated within a window frame,having the open face toward the bottom of the window. When the window isclosed, very little power is required to maintain the impeller speedbecause there is no interference from ambient air. If a window is openedthe air load on the impeller is increased and the motor slows downaccordingly. The change in motor speed can be detected via sound, RF orother means. A sound, RF or other detector would indicate the variationand trigger an alarm system (i.e., sound an audio and visual alarm, emita separate RF or other signal to a station, signal a telephone alarmservice, etc.).

[0079] Miscellaneous Uses

[0080] The vortex attractor is not limited to the uses described herein.For example, in various types of vehicles, such as automobiles, trucks,trains, boats, ships, submarines (manned and unmanned), airplanes,helicopters, spacecrafts and satellites, vortex devices may be employedfor many applications. As with the above-described uses, vortexattractors may be used for door locks, window locks, power windows orsliding doors. Vortex attractors may also be used with power mirrors.With power mirrors, a single vortex attractor could be mounted behind amirror on a circular tracking device. The mirror would be mounted on asturdy ball-joint attachment to allow full adjustment. Additionally,several vortex attractors could be mounted behind the mirror and theappropriate combination would adjust the mirror to the user's need.Adjustable seats may also be provided wherein the base of the chairhouses a plurality of vortex attractors. For example, the seat may bemounted on one ball-joint attachment, and the one or more vortexattractors could be actuated to tilt the seat in any direction bypulling the chair toward the floor. This type of seat may be used in ahome, automotive, nautical or aircraft.

[0081] Vortex attractors may also provide an active weight balancingsystem, which may also be used as a leveling system for any type offixed installation, aircraft, ship or vehicle. For instance, in atanker, vortex attractors may be placed at various positions to generateforces that may counter uneven weight distribution of the fluid in thetanker.

[0082] In a vehicle, vortex attractors may be placed at variouspositions on the underside to aid in balancing. This may be accomplishedby a centrally located vortex attractor or multiple vortex attractors.In a system employing a single vortex attractor, when the vehicle is ona slope, the attractor is activated providing a stabilization force toaid the existing gravitational forces. In a system employing multipleattractors, appropriate attractors are separately activated to levelingthe vehicle or preventing the vehicle from flipping over.

[0083] Another tool or device which may be created with one or morevortex attractors may be used as a hammer or cutting tool. Such a devicecomprises one or more vortex attractors and a hammer head or a cuttinghead. Said hammer head or cutting head is attracted to the impeller endof the vortex attractor upon activation, and is released upondeactivation. The action (hammering or cutting) may be from gravity orby other force-generating means. Such other force generating means maycomprise existing art (such as means used in air chisels or electriccompression chisels) or may be provided via mechanical linkage of thevortex attractor.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0084]FIG. 1 depicts a prior art thruster device which uses an airintake, a swirler which spins about a central axis and an air exhaust tocreate pressure differentials.

[0085]FIG. 2A depicts a vortex of fluid between two plates.

[0086]FIG. 2B depicts the pressure profile across the vortex of FIG. 2A.

[0087]FIG. 3 depicts a conventional impeller.

[0088]FIGS. 4A and 4B depict embodiments of the vortex generatingapparatuses of the present invention.

[0089]FIG. 5 depicts a general view of the fluid flow through the vorteximpeller.

[0090]FIGS. 6A and 6B depict a vortex and the respective flowcomponents.

[0091]FIG. 7 depicts the various components of the overall fluid flowcaused by the vortex generating apparatus of the present invention.

[0092]FIG. 8 is a chart of airspeed versus distance along the impellerfor various distances from the vortex generating apparatus.

[0093]FIG. 9 is a chart of pressure versus distance along the impellerfor various distances from the vortex generating apparatus.

[0094]FIG. 10 depicts a vortex generating apparatus of the presentinvention and a flat plate some distance from the vortex generatingapparatus.

[0095]FIG. 11 charts the airspeed and pressure versus the distance fromthe center of the impeller/containing ring center for a vortexgenerating apparatus having a flat plate spaced a distance of 1.0 in.from the edge of the containing ring.

[0096]FIG. 12 charts the airspeed and pressure versus the distance fromthe center of the impeller/containing ring center for a vortexgenerating apparatus having a flat plate spaced a distance of 2.0 in.from the edge of the containing ring.

[0097]FIG. 13 is a prior art depiction of an impeller vacuum system.

[0098]FIGS. 14A and 14B are diagrams of the stages of use of a prior artimpeller vacuum system attracting a flat object.

[0099]FIG. 15 depicts a cutaway drawing of an embodiment of a vortexattractor of the present invention.

[0100]FIGS. 16A and 16B are diagrams of the stages of use of a vortexattractor attracting a flat object.

[0101]FIG. 17 charts the relationships between the distance from theimpeller and both the attraction and input power of a vortex attractorand a vacuum impeller system.

[0102]FIGS. 18A and 18B depict a vortex attractor assembly sans acontaining wall.

[0103]FIGS. 19A and 19B depict a vortex attractor assembly sans impellervanes.

[0104]FIGS. 20A and 20B depict a vortex attractor assembly sans abackplate.

[0105]FIGS. 21A and 21B depict a vortex attractor assembly havingpropeller blades.

[0106]FIGS. 22A and 22B depict an embodiment of the present inventionusing a multiple impeller system.

[0107]FIG. 23 shows an example of a safety plate for a vortex attractor.

[0108]FIG. 24 depicts an example of a traversing vortex attractor.

[0109]FIGS. 25A, 25B and 25C depict the forces acting on a vehicle on aflat surface and an inclined surface, and the resultant force with theinclusion of a vortex attractor on the underside of a vehicle.

[0110]FIGS. 26A and 26B depict a variation of the vortex attractor ofthe present invention.

[0111]FIG. 27 depicts an attractor incorporating a variation of thevortex attractor of the present invention.

[0112]FIG. 28A depicts a side view of an air pump and jet vortexattractor.

[0113]FIG. 28B depicts a cutaway view of an air pump and jet vortexattractor showing air directing vanes in the jet area.

[0114]FIG. 28C depicts the vortex airflow generated by an air pump andjet vortex attractor.

[0115]FIG. 29 is a graph comparing the air pump and jet vortex attractorwith a conventional vortex attractor of the same diameter.

[0116]FIG. 30 depicts the airflow of an air pump and jet vortexattractor against a concave surface.

[0117]FIG. 31 depicts the airflow of an air pump and jet vortexattractor against a convex surface.

[0118]FIG. 32 depicts the airflow of an air pump and jet vortexattractor around an inside corner.

[0119]FIG. 33 depicts the airflow of an air pump and jet vortexattractor around an outside corner.

[0120]FIG. 34 depicts one possible embodiment of an air pump and jetvortex attractor system.

[0121]FIG. 35A depicts a conventional vortex attractor.

[0122]FIG. 35B depicts a vacuum attractor.

[0123]FIG. 36 is a graph depicting the efficiency of a vortex attractorversus a vacuum attractor.

[0124]FIG. 37 depicts a vacuum attractor with a flexible skirttraversing an inside corner.

[0125]FIG. 38 depicts a vacuum attractor with a flexible skirttraversing an outside corner.

[0126]FIG. 39 depicts a combined system with a flexible impeller or jetsand a flexible skirt traversing an inside corner.

[0127]FIG. 40 depicts a combined system with a flexible impeller or jetsand a flexible skirt traversing an outside corner.

[0128]FIG. 41 depicts a vortex attractor system in suction cupoperation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0129] The preferred embodiments of the apparatus of the presentinvention will be described in reference to the accompanying drawings.These embodiments do not represent the full scope of the invention, butrather the invention may be employed in other embodiments. Referenceshould therefore be made to the claims herein for interpreting thebreadth of the invention. Finally, as described above, many uses existfor the invention described herein, although examples are shown with thevortex generating apparatus attracting a flat plate.

[0130] This invention makes use of a vortex of fluid flow that reducesthe pressure between the source of the fluid motion, or the impellersand one or more solid objects to be attracted. The vortex attractordescribed herein generates a generally cylindrical vortex fluid flowcomponent, an inner toroidal vortex, and an outer toroidal vortex, andas these forces act upon an object to draw it closer, the effects ofexternal ambient fluid are reduced and efficiency is achieved by lowfluid resistance.

[0131] Attempts have been made to use the pressure drop created around avortex of fluid flow to propel an object. One related art apparatusproposed by the Vortex Technology Center at the University of Houston'sMechanical Engineering Department attempts to use vortex pressuredifferentials to propel an object. The proposed apparatus, a vortexthruster, is depicted in FIG. 1. The vortex thruster consists of achamber header 11 which houses a cargo area 12 and swirler 13. At thebase of chamber header 13 is a high pressure input source 14. Air entershigh pressure input source 14 and is drawn to the swirler 13. Theswirler, which spins about axis 19, provides angular momentum to theairflow. The central area about the axis 19 which is above the cargoarea and extends to the height of the swirler is defined as vortex area15. The airflow which entered via high pressure input source 14 and isforced around cargo area 12 achieves angular momentum from the swirlerand exits the chamber in the direction indicated by arrows 10 overdiffusers 16. Air from above the vortex region does not enter theswirler due to the low pressure area.

[0132] In the vortex thruster, the lift is said to be generated due tothe pressure difference created by the low pressure area above thevortex region opposed by the high pressure on the external bottom of thechamber. However, the vortex thruster is not effective for attractingsolid objects and removably adhering them.

[0133] The vortical fluid flow created by the vortex attractor describedherein provides a kinetic barrier from outside fluid which wouldotherwise destroy the low pressure at the center. This barrier isprovided from the vortex flow created by the spinning impellers. Thevarious configurations for the backplate and containing ring discussedsupra lead to different shapes of the vortex fluid flow. Furthervariations of the flow pattern are apparent in light of various shapesof the containing ring and backplate. To create the desired low pressureregion, the flow pattern may take on any three-dimensional shape whichhas a plan view forming a continuous line (i.e., a circle in the casesof cylinders and cones, an ellipse, a polygon, etc.). In anyconfiguration, the characteristics of the vortex attractor aremaintained.

[0134] A vortex fluid flow, which can generally be described as aquantity of fluid rotating about a central axis such that a barrier isformed, creates very low pressure at the walls of the barrier. FIGS. 2Aand 2B depict this phenomenon with respect to a cylindrical fluid flowor vortex. FIG. 2A depicts fluid flow 21, shown as severalcounterclockwise rotating arrows, having a rotational velocity component23. As noted infra, the direction of the fluid flow does not effect thelow pressure regions created. FIG. 2A also depicts two parallel plates25 and 26. The rotational velocity 23 is constant across the distancebetween bottom plate 25 and to plate 26. The flow 21 creates a verticaltube of fluid flow defined by vortex wall 29. Outside vortex wall 29 thepressure is ambient. Inside vortex wall 29, within the cylindricalvortex, a low pressure region is formed by the fluid flow 21. Thepressure drop AP between the ambient fluid and lower pressure within thecylindrical vortex is represented by the following formula:

AP=(fluid density)(V ²)/R  (1)

[0135] wherein V is the velocity and R is the radius vortex wall.

[0136]FIG. 2B represents the pressure profile extending from the ambientfluid through the cylindrical vortex and to the opposing side of thecylindrical vortex to the ambient fluid. Reference numeral 39 representsthe vortex wall (corresponding with vortex wall 29 of FIG. 2A). Outsideof the vortex, the ambient fluid is represented on the pressure profileas pressure 33. Within the vortex, the pressure drops to a lowerpressure 31.

[0137] Referring again to FIG. 2A, the plates 25 and 26 are attracted toone another by the low pressure region created within the walls 29 ofthe cylindrical vortex. The plates are attracted to each other with aforce F defined as:

F=2T(AP)(R)  (2)

[0138] This represents the force that is generated by the inventionherein to attract objects using a vortex attractor.

[0139] A pattern of flow having a vortex of fluid, for example, asdescribed above with reference to FIG. 2A having a pressure profile asshown in FIG. 2B, may be generated by directing fluid in a spinningmotion. One apparatus which may generate a vortex fluid flow is depictedin FIG. 3. The impeller in FIG. 3 comprises vanes 31, backplate 33 anddriveshaft 35. Energy is imparted upon driveshaft 35 which causes theimpeller assembly of backplate 33 and vanes 31 to spin in a clockwisedirection. This spinning motion causes fluid to flow as shown by arrow39. Fluid is forced down along the axis of the impeller assembly andexits out tangentially from the vanes 31. The fluid leaving the impellerhas two directional components: the radial component, exiting theimpeller and depicted as arrow 39, and the rotational speed or velocitycomponent 37. The result is that the fluid spirals away from the fromthe impeller. This spiral action results in a vortex of fluid flow abovethe impeller and its surroundings.

[0140] The vortex flow above the impellers is substantially improved byincorporating a shell around the impeller vanes. FIGS. 4A and 4B depictsuch apparatuses. FIG. 4A depicts an apparatus where the impellerassembly 40 a comprises vanes 41 a and a shell comprising backplate 43 aand containing wall or ring 45 a. Backplate 43 a and/or containing wall45 a may also contain one or more additional apertures or slits. Theseadditional apertures or slits may be provided to minimize weight, fordecorative purposes or to provide any desired functionality related tospecific configuration or application. These additional apertures orslits may also be provided in order to generate external fluid flow forauxiliary functions or monitoring. The entire impeller assembly 40 a iscaused to spin by imparting energy upon driveshaft 47 a.

[0141]FIG. 4B depicts an apparatus where the impeller assembly 40 bcomprises vanes 41 b, and a shell comprising backplate 43 b andcontaining wall or ring 45 b. The vanes 41 b are caused to spin byimparting energy upon driveshaft 47 a while backplate 43 b andcontaining ring 45 b remain stationary. When the impellers are spun ineither device, a vortex of fluid is created in a region above theimpeller blades. As the containing wall is circular and is perpendicularto the backplate, a generally cylindrical vortex will be generated. Theterm “above” is used here since FIGS. 4A and 4B depict the apparatusesin a position where the cylindrical vortex zone is generated in thedirection from the driveshaft side of the backplate to the impeller sideof the backplate. The vortex of fluid will be directed generally normalto the impeller side of the backplate and directed away from theimpeller assembly.

[0142]FIG. 5 depicts a general representation of the flow through thevortex impeller depicted generally in FIGS. 4A and 4B. The containingring 55 changes the direction of the fluid flow exiting the vanes of theimpeller such that the fluid is directed away from the impeller parallelto the wall of the containing ring 55. Flow 59 is in from the center ofthe impeller assembly 50 and radially out through the vanes 51, thendeflected along the inside wall of containing ring 55 and away frombackplate 53.

[0143]FIGS. 6A and 6B depict a more detailed view of the fluid flowcomponents of the vortex created by the apparatus depicted generally inFIGS. 4A and 4B. FIG. 6A shows fluid flow 69 a as a continuous flowwhich is deflected away from the backplate 63 and tangentially along theinner wall of the containing ring 65. The fluid has a horizontalcomponent due to the impeller rotation.

[0144]FIG. 6B shows the directions 69 b and 69 c of the fluid leavingthe impeller having a vertical and a horizontal component, creating atangential flow 69 b and a horizontal component 69 c.

[0145] The vortex depicted generally in FIG. 6A shows the fluid reachinga height and reentering the impeller assembly 60. The pressure insidethe vortex apparatus is lower than the ambient fluid pressure. Thisprevents the fluid from flying outward due to the centripetalacceleration and leads to the upward spiral as shown. As it is impartedwith outside forces from the ambient fluid the velocity drops causing amajor component of the fluid flow to be drawn into the center of theflow region and toward the center of the impeller assembly. Withoutobstructions between impeller assembly 60 and flow 69 a, the fluid flowscontinuously while the vanes of the impeller assembly spin.

[0146]FIG. 7 depicts the several components of the fluid flow in thesystem of the vortex apparatus. The major component is vortex 71 whichrises up from the containing ring and is depicted as expanding outwardas distance from the impeller assembly 70 increases. The vortexgenerated is actually frustoconical in shape; however, although it isdescribed generally herein as cylindrical, the term encompassesfrustoconical fluid flows. Within the cylindrical vortex is an innertoroidal vortex, depicted generally in cross section by arrows 73, whichcarries fluid out toward the inside walls of the cylindrical vortex 71and around through the center of the cylindrical vortex in a continuingpattern as shown by the cross section. This flow cross section depictedby arrows 73 is within the circumference of the cylindrical vortex.Outside the cylindrical vortex an additional toroidal vortex is createdas shown in cross section by arrows 75. This toroidal vortex has arising fluid flow toward the wall of the cylindrical vortex anddescending away from the vortex as the distance from the impellerassembly 70 increases. This flow 75 is continuous around thecircumference of cylindrical vortex 71. The energy of the outer toroidalvortex 71 is substantially less than that of the inner toroidal vortex73.

[0147] Both inner toroidal vortex 73 and outer toroidal vortex 75 arecreated from energies created by the cylindrical vortex and as suchreduce the cylindrical vortex energy. The inner and outer vortices arethus parasitic and reduce the vortex attraction.

[0148] The cylindrical vortex creates a barrier between the ambientfluid pressure and the lower than ambient pressure within thecylindrical vortex. Additionally, within the inner and outer toroidalvortices the pressure is lower than ambient. The lowest pressures of thesystem are within the inner toroidal vortex, as the pressure is reducedby both the inner toroidal vortex 73 and the cylindrical vortex 71.

[0149] The combination of these vortices creates a fluid flow and apressure region that vary with distance from the vortex assembly andacross the radius of the impeller. FIGS. 8 and 9 represent dataresulting from tests performed with a vortex attractor having animpeller radius of 1.25 inches acting on air. FIG. 8 charts thevariation in airspeed in feet per minute with the distance from thecenter of the impeller in inches based on a tip velocity of 4000 feetper minute, and at various distances from the containing ring (i.e.,0.125 in., 0.25 in., 0.375 in., 0.5 in., 0.625 in., 0.75 in., 1.0 in.,1.5 in., and 2.0 in.).

[0150]FIG. 8 shows the airspeed decreases with increasing distance fromthe impeller. Also, the airspeed varies as the distance from the centerof the impeller increases. These variations may be due to the effects ofthe toroidal vortices on the airflow through the cylindrical vortex. Theairspeed is at a maximum at 0.125 in. from the impeller, and at 1.25 in.from the axis of the impeller, or at the wall of the containing ring.The lack of resistance acting upon the airflow allows high airspeed.

[0151] As the distance from the center of the impeller changes, theairspeed varies in accordance with the position of the toroidalvortices. At 1.0 in. from the axis of the impeller, the airspeed is verylow even at a distance of 0.125 in. from the impeller. This is due tothe portion of the inner toroidal vortex nearest the impeller blockingairflow. At 1.25″ from the impeller radius, the airspeed is lessaffected by resistance from the inner toroidal vortex until the distancefrom the impeller is increased to 0.375 in. and greater. The dramaticloss in airspeed may be explained by the resistance from the portion ofthe inner toroidal vortex nearest the cylindrical vortex barrier. Also,as the distance from the impeller radius increases beyond the radius ofthe impeller, the outer toroidal vortex affects the airflow. Forexample, the airspeed measured at 0.375 in. from the impeller reached amaximum at approximately 1.5 in. from the impeller axis, or 0.25 inbeyond outside of the containing ring. This may be caused by the outertoroidal vortex acting on the surrounding air at that point.

[0152]FIG. 9 charts the variation in pressure in inches of water withthe distance from the center of the impeller in inches based on a tipvelocity of 4000 feet per minute, and at various distances from thecontaining ring (i.e., 0.125 in., 0.25 in., 0.375 in., 0.5 in., 0.625in., 0.75 in., 1.0 in., 1.5 in., and 2.0 in.). The lowest pressure isachieved at a distance of 1.0 in. from the impeller, and decreases to aminimum as the distance from the impeller axis increases toapproximately 0.75 in., and rises sharply as the containing ring isapproached (i.e., the distance from the impeller axis approaches 1.25in.). At distances closer than 1.0 in. from the impeller, the pressuredecreases to a minimum as the distance from the impeller axis increasesto between 1.0 in and 1.25 in., at which point the pressure risessharply. At distances further than 1.0 in. from the impeller, theminimum pressure is at the center of the impeller radius and increasesas the distance from the impeller axis increases.

[0153] The pressure profile across the radius at different distancesfrom the impeller is apparently affected by the toroidal vortices. Forinstance, at 1.0 in. from the impeller, the lowest pressure region isapproximately 0.75 in from the axis. At 0 in. from the axis, there isonly a slight variation. This corresponds with the central region of thecylindrical vortex, at a distance far enough from the impeller to beacted upon by the inner toroidal vortex. At a distance further from theaxis, i.e., as the wall of the containing ring is approached, thepressure increases sharply to a pressure level slightly higher thanambient pressure. This is due to the resistance acting upon thecylindrical vortex barrier from ambient air and the outer toroidalvortex. As the distance from the axis increases further, the pressureapproaches ambient, indicating the breakdown of the outer toroidalvortex.

[0154] The above descriptions of FIGS. 8 and 9 indicate the effects ofthe various components of the airflow as distance from the axis anddistance from the impeller varies. These profiles, however, aredramatically affected when a flat plate is placed opposite the vortexattractor. A vortex is created where the inner toroidal vortex issuppressed and a lower pressure is created between the plate and theimpeller/containing wall assembly (as compared to theimpeller/containing ring assembly without a flat plate some distanceaway). FIG. 10 generally shows this combination of the flat plate 101,cylindrical vortex 103 and impeller/containing wall assembly 105.

[0155] The low pressure region induced by the cylindrical vortex 103between flat plate 101 and impeller/containing ring assembly 105attracts flat plate 101 to impeller/containing ring assembly 105. Whenthe plate becomes very close to the impeller/containing ring assembly105, the low pressure created by the cylindrical vortex does not degradebecause there is negligible resistance from outside fluid. The onlyresistance is the viscosity of the fluid existing within the system withno increased resistance from ambient. The inner and outer vortices areminimized as the plate moves closer to the impeller/containing ringassembly, and are diminished when the plate and impeller/containing ringare in contact. This is due to the diminishing and eventual lack ofinteraction with ambient fluid. The pressure reduction is governed byequation 1, infra. When an object is adhered to the containing ring, theenergy losses are from friction with the fluid within the system.

[0156] As the distance between the impeller/containing ring assembly andthe flat plate increases, the inner and outer toroidal vortices form.However, though they still exist, the amplitudes of these ancillaryvortices are lower with the flat plate as compared to a system withoutthe flat plate. This is due to the plate blocking the fluid flow alongthe impeller axis toward the impeller/containing ring assembly.

[0157] Using the same system as described above with reference to FIGS.8 and 9, a flat plate was added at 1.0 in. and at 2.0 in. and airspeedand pressure were measured. FIGS. 11 and 12 chart airspeed and pressureversus the distance from an impeller/containing ring center for a vortexattractor with a flat plate at 1.0 in. and 2.0 in., respectively, havingan impeller diameter of 2.5 in. with an impeller tip velocity of 4000feet per minute. Comparing these results with those when there is noflat plate shows that the pressure reduction is over ten-fold when thereis a plate present. The effects of the plate on the airspeed is apparentfrom the charts in FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0158] The magnitudes of the airflow measurements, both airspeed andpressure drop, are higher when the plate is present, as compared to FIG.8 without a plate. The maximum airspeed in FIG. 8 is approximately 3500feet per minute as compared to 4000 feet per minute when a plate is 1.0in. from the impeller (FIG. 11) and 3800 feet per minute when a plate is2.0 in. from the impeller (FIG. 12). The airspeed is generally increasedas compared to airspeed without a plate because the ambient air ispartially blocked thereby reducing air resistance and also preventing orminimizing the formation of the toroidal vortices.

[0159] The low pressure region exhibits a much lower pressure when aplate is maintained near the impeller end as compared to the systemwithout a plate. In FIG. 12, with a plate 1.0 in. from the impeller, thelowest pressure region is as low as −9 inches of water. Without theplate, the lowest pressure is slightly lower than −0.8 inches of water.This dramatic decrease in pressure when a plate is provided is likelydue to the suppressed toroidal vortices. These vortices are suppressedby the lack of air resistance from ambient air.

[0160] The illustrations with specific configurations, dimensions, andthe resulting data, represent one application of the invention. Theoperation with varying fluids, impeller configurations/sizes or shellconfigurations/sizes provide generally similar effects but with widedifferences in scale.

[0161] The invention will be further described with reference toexisting art. Although the vanes that create the vortex flow and thecorresponding assembly may be referred to herein as “impellers”, theseimpellers stand in sharp contrast to an impeller vacuum system. Theimpellers of a vortex attractor are not designed to move fluid through asystem, as in a vacuum cleaner, but are designed to establish a lowpressure zone while minimizing the effects from outside of the generatedvortex flow of the system. Moving fluid in a self-contained system takeslittle energy because the kinetic energy applied to the fluid remains inthe system. In contrastdiction, moving fluid through a system takes acontinuous supply of energy because the energy expended in moving fluidis continuously lost as the fluid is exhausted from the system.

[0162] Furthermore, when the vortex attractor and the flat plate areseparated, the low pressure between them is reduced, i.e., pressureincreases, and energy must be supplied to the impeller due to fluidcirculation from ambient fluid into the impeller tube. However, lessenergy must be supplied as compared to a vacuum system that does notemploy a vortex flow. A barrier to the outside fluid is established thatprovides the low pressure to a directed region relative to the impellerend of the attractor. In a vacuum system, there is a fluid exhaust,therefore continuous energy is expended in moving masses of fluid from ageneral region near the tube.

[0163] A commonly known impeller vacuum system is shown in FIG. 13. Amotor 10 drives driveshaft 11 which spins rotor 12 having an impellercomprising vanes 13. Vanes 13 are surrounded by an annular collectorring 14. A tube 15 opposite the center of vanes 13 allows fluid into thesystem. The spinning vanes 13 causes a circular fluid motion. Thecentrifugal force or centripetal acceleration throws the fluid out intothe collector ring 14 where it is coupled to exhaust 16. It also reducesthe pressure of the fluid in the center of vanes 13. Fluid is drawnthrough inlet 15 and through vanes 13 of the impeller to exhaust 16. Theresult is a continuous fluid flow through the system and a reduction ofthe fluid pressure at inlet 15. This state is maintained by continuouslysupplying energy to the fluid as it moves through vanes 13 of theimpeller.

[0164] An impeller vacuum system can be used to attract objects close tothe inlet. FIG. 14 shows two conditions, represented in FIGS. 14A and14B. FIG. 14A depicts a flat object 20 covering the end of inlet tube15. In this case there is no fluid flow through the system. Thus thefluid between vanes 13 of the impeller remains there and moves withvanes 13 at a constant circular velocity. There is a pressure differenceacross vanes 13 with a low pressure in the center of the impeller andinlet 15 and ambient pressure in collector ring 14 and exhaust 16. Underthese conditions very little energy is required to maintain fluidmovement. This phenomenon can be seen with a typical vacuum cleaner. Ifthe end of the vacuum cleaner hose is covered, the motor speeds upindicating a reduction in the power requirement. The practical result isthat the pressure difference between the ambient pressure at the top ofthe attracted object and the low pressure within the inlet tube holdsthe object onto its end.

[0165] The second example, depicted in FIG. 14B, shows an object 20spaced a distance above inlet tube 15. Fluid flows in the space betweenobject 20 and tube 15 down through vanes 13 of the impeller and throughexhaust 16 (the fluid flow path is indicated with directional line 10).The pressure in the space between object 20 and tube 15 is lower thanambient but very much closer to the ambient pressure than that of theprevious example. This is due to the restriction of the flow into theinlet by the attracted object. The force attracting object 20 and inlet15 decreases rapidly as the object is moved away from the tube and thepower to the impeller increases as fluid is moved through the system.

[0166]FIG. 15 shows an embodiment of the vortex attractor of the presentinvention. In this example, a motor 30 drives driveshaft 31 which spinsrotor 32. The type of motor used is irrelevant to the invention herein.Any device which has the capability of spinning driveshaft 31 isacceptable, such as battery motors, compressed air, solar cells, etc.Vanes 34 of impeller 33 are mounted upon rotor 32. As with the motor,the type of vane, vane configuration, impeller diameter and materialsused can be varied depending on the particular application for thevortex attractor.

[0167] The spinning rotor throws fluid out from the center to containingring 35 so that the pressure in the center is reduced above impeller end37, as described in detail above. Unlike the vacuum system the fluid iscontained by containing wall 35 and not coupled to a collector ring andexhaust. A circular fluid flow 39 is generated at impeller end 37. Theoverall result is that fluid flow through the system is limited, andefficiency is enhanced.

[0168]FIGS. 16A and 16B depict the vortex attractor establishing a lowpressure zone between it and a flat object 40. In the first exampledepicted in FIG. 16A the object lies on top of containing wall or ring35 of the attractor. The impeller motion spins fluid out around the rimof the tube to establish a low pressure zone between the impeller andthe object. The pressure drop is in this case the similar to thepressure drop in the vacuum system shown in FIG. 14A and very littlepower is required to maintain fluid circulation and attraction. In asealed system, no fluid enters or leaves the impeller enclosure.

[0169] The second example depicted in FIG. 16B shows the attractedobject 40 separated from the vortex attractor. In this case the vortexestablished by the impeller extends above containing ring 35 andterminates on the bottom surface of attracted object 40. Circular fluidflow 38 maintains a low pressure between the impeller and the objectsurface and hinders fluid from flowing in and out of containing ring 35.In this case a lower pressure is maintained between the attractor andobject than in the vacuum system of FIG. 14B and less energy is expendedin circulating the fluid. No energy is expended circulating fluidthrough a system as with a vacuum shown in FIG. 14B. Energy is expendedonly to overcome the viscosity of the fluid between the containing ringand the attracted object. Thus for a given amount of power theattraction between the impeller system of the vortex attractor isgreater than that for the vacuum system as the distance between theattractor and the object is increased.

[0170] The efficiency of vortex attractors as compared to vacuumimpellers is demonstrated in FIG. 17, wherein the attractive forces andthe input power are compared plotted relative to the height above theimpeller. For both the vortex system and the vacuum system, the fluidbeing acted on is air, the impeller diameter is 2.5 inches, and theimpeller assembly consists of sixteen (16) vanes that each have an areaof 0.4 square inches. The driveshaft in both systems is maintained at aconstant speed of 6,000 revolutions per minute. The vacuum system testeduses a 2.5 inch diameter, 2 inch long suction tube connected to animpeller central inlet by a 1.25 inch diameter, 12 inch long tube.

[0171] The horizontal scale of the chart depicted in FIG. 17 representsthe distance in inches of a flat plate from either the vortex attractorimpeller or a vacuum system suction tube. The vertical scale on the leftrepresents the attraction or attractive forces in ounces, and the scaleon the right represents the input power in watts.

[0172] With respect to the prior art vacuum system, curves 10 and 11represent the vacuum lift and vacuum power, respectively. At a platedistance exceeding one inch from the vacuum orifice or suction tube, theattraction of the vacuum system reduces to a negligible level of lessthan 0.1 ounce, while the power at the same distance is greater than 6.5watts. The vacuum system tested had the highest attraction force whenthe plate and the orifice were in contact, i.e., zero height. At zeroheight, the vacuum system generated 1.0 ounces of attraction force at avacuum power of approximately 1.3 watts. The vacuum system demonstrateda sharp increase in attraction forces as the height of the platedecreased from approximately 0.125 inches to zero inches.

[0173] In contrast, the results for the vortex attractor tested showboth greater attraction and greater efficiency. First, the requiredinput power or the vortex system is less than that of the vacuum systemin all cases except at zero height, where the power may be equal. Evenat zero height, with equal power, the vortex attractor generates over1.4 ounces of lift compared to about 1.0 ounces of lift for the vacuumlift. As the distance between the plate and the impeller increases, thevortex lift decreases as the power increases. At 1 inch, where the liftof the vacuum is at about 0.1 ounces with a power input of about 6.5watts, the vortex attractor maintains about 0.7 ounces of lift with apower input of less than 3 watts. The vortex attractor also maintainsattraction at distances of 2.0 inches from the impeller (about 0.375ounces attraction and 3.5 watts power input), whereas the vacuum systemhas negligible attraction at that distance.

[0174] The relationship of both the input power and the attraction isapproximately linear over a range of heights above the vortex impeller.In the depicted chart, the power input increases at a rate ofapproximately 1 watt per inch and the attraction decreases at a rate ofapproximately 0.54 ounces per inch. These values will change withdifferent assembles which are more or less efficient than the devicetested. This relationship is useful in various applications, includingcontrol devices, sensors or detectors. Furthermore, the linear regionprovides enhanced predictability in for determining power and heightrequirements for a suspending a load.

[0175] Various modifications of the impeller and shell configurationsare possible which maintain the captive vortex forces. In the abovedescriptions, The impeller blades have been illustrated as flat platesfor reasons or simplicity. In practice the blades may be curved in orderto scoop fluid out from the impeller center towards the containing ring.They may be curved in order to deflect the fluid upward out of thecontaining ring. They may have an aerofoil section in order to minimizefluid resistance and maximize fluid movement. The blades may have avariable pitch in order to control fluid flow for controlled attraction,or shaped so that they can be turned in order to stop the vortex flowfor rapid loss of attraction. Similarly the containing ring andbackplate may have controllable apertures in order to rapidly reduceattraction, in addition to generating fluid flow outside the impellerfor other purposes such as measurement control or to generate auxiliarypower.

[0176] There are occasions when either the containing ring or the vanesmay be entirely eliminated. FIGS. 18A and 18B, for example, depict avortex attractor configuration without a containing ring. When vortexattractor 11 is located very close to attracted surface 20, thecontaining ring is not necessary. Vortex attractor 11 comprises vanes orimpeller 13, backplate 15, driveshaft 17 and motor 19. Vanes 13 areattached to the peripheral edges of backplate 15. The spinning motion isachieved by power from motor 19 to driveshaft 17, which spins backplate15. The vortex fluid flow is created between attracted surface 20 andthe impeller end of attractor 11. Rotating impeller 13 causescirculating fluid flow between backplate 15 and attracted object 20. Thecentripetal acceleration of the fluid, depicted by arrow 10, forcesfluid out radially through vanes 13 until equilibrium is achieved withfluid pressure inside the space between backplate 15 and attractedsurface 20 being lower than ambient. Fluid cannot flow back into thisspace from the outside because of a vortex established between the topof vanes 13 and attracted surface 20 and the vortex attraction is asdescribed for the case when a containing ring is present. The lowpressure area between backplate 15 and attracted object 20 causesattraction as previously described.

[0177] As the space between the impeller end and attracted surface 20 isincreased the degree of attraction rapidly decreases as fluid movinginto the space above backplate 15 is expelled radially through vanes 13.The performance is similar to the vacuum system shown in FIG. 14 with aperformance curve as depicted in FIG. 17, however the establishment of avortex above vanes 13 reduces the rate at which attraction is reduced asseparation of attractor 11 and attracted surface 20 increases. In anextreme case the height of the impeller vanes can be reduced to zero atwhich point fluid rotation is maintained by surface roughness. Theattraction is not as great as when impeller vanes are installed and isof use when the backplate and attracted surface are in close proximity.

[0178]FIGS. 19A and 19B depict an additional embodiment on the vortexattractor of the present invention with the elimination of the vanes orimpellers. In this embodiment, vortex attractor 21 comprises containingwall or ring 23, backplate 25, driveshaft 27 and motor 29. Backplate 25,centrally attached to driveshaft 27, is caused to spin by activation ofmotor 29. The inside of containing walls 23, attached to the peripheralof backplate 25, are somewhat abrasive, whereby the roughness of causesfluid in close proximity to it to move with it. Containing ring 23 actsas an inefficient impeller. The fluid flow is as previously describedfor an impeller with vanes and a vortex is established betweencontaining ring 23 and attracted surface 30. The vortex flow is not asstrong as when impeller vanes are installed and the attraction isconsequently less. This configuration is appropriate, for example, whensafety is a major concern because there are no projecting parts withinthe impeller assembly that can cause injury.

[0179] The centripetal acceleration of the fluid, depicted by arrow 20,forces fluid out radially along the inside of containing wall 23 untilequilibrium is achieved with fluid pressure inside the space betweenbackplate 25 and attracted surface 30 being lower than ambient. A vortexestablished between the top of containing wall 23 and attracted surface3, thereby preventing fluid from flow back into this space from theoutside. The low pressure area between backplate 25 and attracted object20 causes attraction as previously described.

[0180]FIGS. 20A and 20B depict a vortex attractor in which the backplatehas been eliminated. Attractor 31 comprises containing ring 33, vanes34, vane supports 35, hub 36, driveshaft 37 and motor 38. Each of thedepicts vanes 34 are attached to individual supports 35, such as wires,to central hub 36. Hub 36 is spun in the direction depicted by arrow 40by driveshaft 37, which is connected to motor 38. Upon actuation,spinning vanes 34 lead to cylindrical vortices forming above and belowthem. The lack of a backplate allows fluid to flow into the center ofthe impeller assembly (comprising vanes 34, vane supports 35 and hub 36)and reduce the pressure drop. Thus, while there is still an attractionto attracted surface 40, this attraction is generally less than theprevious cases having a backplate. This configuration may be usefulbecause it supplies low pressure circulating fluid below the impellerassembly which can be used for monitoring or measuring purposes or topower auxiliary systems.

[0181]FIGS. 21A and 21B show a vortex attractor in which the backplateand vanes have been removed and a propeller or fan put in their place.Vortex attractor 41 comprises containing ring 43, blades or propellers45, hub 46, driveshaft 47 and motor 48. Blades 45 are caused to spin inthe direction indicated by arrow 50 by action from driveshaft 47, whichis attached to motor 48. Containing ring 43 may be attached to blades 45and rotate with them, or containing ring 43 may be a separate,stationary ring. Preferably, blades 45 are on an angle in thisapplication.

[0182] Rotating blades 45 generate cylindrical vortices both above andbelow the propeller assembly (comprising blades 45 and hub 46). Abovethe propeller the action is as previously described with fluid beingspun out of the space between containing ring 43 and attracted object 50to produce a low pressure area above the propeller assembly, whichcauses attraction to surface 50 above.

[0183] The vortex generated below the propeller assembly is notterminated in a backplate, thus collapses in on itself with fluid movingfrom behind the propeller assembly back toward the center. The bladeangle repels this fluid back downward and prevents it from reaching thespace between blades 45 and attracted object 50. The performance as avortex attractor is somewhat less than that for the preferredarrangement having a backplate due to power required in circulating thefluid below the propeller blades.

[0184] It should be noted that blades 45 do not operate as a propellerin the traditional sense since no fluid passes through them. The actionon fluid above blades 45 is similar to the action with an impellerassembly, which pushes fluid horizontally and centripetally. The actionon fluid below blades 45 prevents it from being sucked back throughblades 45 and diminishing the vortex attraction with respect toattracted surface 50. This is the reverse of a propeller's normalfunction.

[0185] The propeller function is useful in cases where a vortexattractor at ground level can be made to fly up to the ceiling level byhelicopter action of the propeller blades, and when the ceiling isreached the operation automatically changes over to that of a vortexattractor. The attractor mode consumes far less power than thehelicopter mode. Various parameters such as blade pitch may be varied tooperate efficiently in either mode.

[0186] Propellers are well known in the art as are propellers operatedin ducts, known as ducted fans. This application differs in that it hasa propeller serving a dual purpose—that of a helicopter, and also thatof a vortex attractor.

[0187] As discussed supra, these systems produce a captive vortex fluidflow similar to that produced by a tornado. A tornado is an example of avortex system that is stable along the length or height of its axis formany multiples of its diameter. To reproduce this effect the fluidpressure must decrease from the outside of the circular path to theinside. Consequently, if the rotational speed of the fluid increasesfrom the outside to the inside of the vortex, an enhanced attractivefluid flow results. This increase in rotational velocity can beachieved, for example, by a series of concentric impellers mounted asshown in FIGS. 22A and 22B. Impeller blades 21 are driven by a series ofgears comprising gear assembly 24 that increase the rotational speedfrom the outer to the inner impellers (note that only two per ring aredepicted for clarity—more than two may be used). Between gear assembly24 and backplate 22 is an assembly such as a bearing assembly includingconcentric shafts 23, which minimize the flow of fluid through thebackplate to impeller blades 21. In an embodiment of the impellerarrangement depicted in FIG. 19, each assembly of impellers areseparated by individual containing rings 25, 26 and 27 (note that inFIG. 22A, containing rings 25, 26 and 27 are not depicted for clarity).

[0188] An example of a protective covering for a vortex attractor isdepicted generally in FIG. 23. A vortex attractor is provided havingcontaining wall 28, backplate 29 and driveshaft 30. Additionally, cover31 prevents contact directly with impeller blades 33 from open impellerend 35. Fluid flow 38 a enters into the region about the impeller axisand flow 38 b exits from the region between the inside of containingwall 28 and the tips of impeller blades 33. The plate does not effectthe fluid flow, as the center region nor the region between the tips ofthe blades and the containing wall are covered. This plate may also bereplaced by a series of concentric rings, a spiral ring, or other typeof screen which does not impede fluid flow in and out. Furthermore, thecontaining wall may have a portion which extends toward the impellers,as described with reference to FIGS. 25A and 25B, infra. With thecontaining wall shell assembly, preferably such a shell geometryincludes slits at the edge of the portion of the containing wallextending over the impellers.

[0189] Examples of the functional uses of the vortex attractor aredepicted supra and described with reference to certain drawings herein.These examples are not intended to limit the invention. Rather, they areprovided merely to illustrate uses, configurations and added components.

[0190] An example of a traversing vortex attractor, various embodimentsand uses of which are described supra, is depicted in FIG. 24.Generally, FIG. 24 depicts climbing attractor 40 having impeller 41,wheels or casters 43, frame 45 and motor 47. Impeller 41 is positionedwithin a pocket formed in mounting frame 45. This pocket serves thepurpose of the containing wall and backplate described above.Furthermore, wheels or casters 43 are provided. These wheels or castersmay be driven by motor 47, which drives the impeller, or by a separatemotor (not shown). Traversing attractor 40 remains attracted to ceilingor wall 50 when the impellers are driven. The space between impeller 41and ceiling or wall 50 is just sufficient to clear any obstacles thatmay be encountered. Wheels or casters 43 provided traction and controlto traversing attractor 40. If casters of the ball-bearing type areprovided rather than wheels, traversing attractor 40 may traverse in anydirection or angle with ease. As discussed above, a traversing vortexattractor has numerous uses, including toys, transport, surveillance,painting, repairs, etc.

[0191] A further use of the vortex attractor is as a stabilizationmechanism for vehicles traversing an incline. FIGS. 25A-25C depicts theforces acting on a vehicle both on a flat surface and on an inclinedsurface. FIG. 25A shows a vehicle on a flat road with the gravity forcedue to its mass being exerted vertically downwards from the center ofgravity (depicted as a “+” symbol in FIGS. 25A-25C), as representedvector 1 a. In a four wheel drive vehicle the force ideally actscentrally between the axles. In a front wheel drive system the gravityforce should center closer to the front axle. FIG. 25B shows the samevehicle on an inclined road. The gravity force, vector 1 b, againextends from the center of gravity, but due to the incline acts closerto the rear axle. Most of the weight is carried on the rear wheels andlittle on the front wheels. This makes the vehicle unstable and tractionbecomes inefficient leading to wheel slip. When the incline is furtherincreased (not shown), the gravity component acts behind the rear axleand the vehicle tips over backwards.

[0192]FIG. 25C depicts the addition of one or more vortex attractors 5mounted beneath the vehicle. If more than one vortex attractor is used,they are preferably symmetrical with respect to the vehicle's center ofgravity. Attractors 5 provide an additional force component, depicted asvector 2 c, toward the road. Force 2 c, when combined with gravitationalforce 1 c, provides an overall resultant force depicted as vector 3 c.Vector 3 c extends further toward the front of the vehicle than gravityvector 1 c. That is, more downward force is applied toward the frontaxle and stability is restored.

[0193] It should be noted that the force 2 c from vortex attractor 5 isat a right angle to the road. Thus, there is no effect on propulsion orbraking. While not depicted, similar effects occur when the vehicletravels downhill or on a lateral slope. The vortex attractors maintainstability. Preferably, the vortex attractor is equipped with stoneguards for safe operation. The source of power for the impeller may befrom the vehicle engine or from a separate source.

[0194] Alternative shell arrangements may provide the same attractivevortex flow. For example, the shell may comprise an outer shield and aninner shield. This arrangement is generally depicted in FIGS. 26A and26B. FIGS. 26A and 26B depict vortex attractor 10 having outer shield 11and inner shield 16. The device also includes impeller blades 17,driveshaft 18 and optional backplate 19 (note—backplate 19 may beeliminated, using the base of inner shield 16 to block fluid flow). Asdepicted in FIG. 26B, outer shield 11 is shaped to cover the impellerblades. This may be substituted for an additional safety ring or plate,for example, as described above and depicted below.

[0195] Upon activation of the impellers, helical vortex fluid flow 12 iscreated. FIG. 26A depicts the tangential portion of helical vortex flow.The vertical component of fluid flow 12 is depicted in FIG. 26B. Helicalfluid flow 12 enters through the region about the impeller axis, and isspun tangentially between the inside wall of outer shield 11 and theoutside wall of inner shield 16. The attractive forces are generatedtoward impeller end 15. This device may be used in the same manner asthe vortex attractor having a shell comprising a containing wall and abackplate.

[0196] An depiction of a device that utilizes the variation provided inFIGS. 26A and 26B is a leaf or waste collector and bagger, showngenerally in FIG. 27. Collector 60 comprises outer shield 61, innershield and container 63, impeller blade 67, backplate 69, drive belt 71and drive motor 73. Additionally, a bag may be provided within the innershield to collect debris, as depicted by liner 64. The top of theassembly includes a removable cover 75 having screen 76 centrallypositioned thereon. The path of airflow is represented by directionalarrows 77, and travels through the region about the impeller axis,through the area between outer shield 61 and inner shield 63 and exitsthrough screen 76. Leaves or other light debris travels along generallythe same path, except the debris falls in the direction represented byarrows 78 into liner 64 within container 63 for collection.

[0197] At the impeller end of collector 60, the outer shield is curvedto cover the impeller. This is similar to the description above withreference to FIGS. 26A and 26B. Alternatively, a plate or series ofrings may be used to cover the impellers. However, the curved impellerend of outer shield 61 is preferred as it allows wheels, tracks orcasters to be mounted thereon. This device may also be converted into aself bagging grass mower by adding a cutting blade on the driveshaftbelow the outer shield. This arrangement improves existing mowers as theattractive forces aid to extend the blades of grass as well as collectthe cuttings or other debris.

[0198]FIG. 28A shows the basic arrangement for an air pump and jetvortex attractor 2800. A motor 2810 drives a centrifugal pump comprisingpump blades 2808 mounted upon rotating hub 2809. Rotating hub 2809 iscoupled to motor 2810. The centrifugal pump occupies pump area 2801,similar to the type used in vacuum cleaners. It is mounted to blow airinto a bowl shaped duct 2807 comprising an inner air guide 2805 and anouter air guide 2806 to curve the flow up from the horizontal to form avertical cylinder of upward moving air. The air then passes through aseries of vanes 2804 to deflect it so that it leaves the horizontal rimsof the inner air guide 2805 and outer air guide 2806 at an acute angle.The terminal portion of the air duct 2807 and air guide vanes 2804comprise the jet area 2802. The airflow 2803 then follows the standardvortex attractor pattern by spiraling upwards and then falling downwardsto the center to be recirculated by the centrifugal pump.

[0199]FIG. 28B is a cutaway view of the air pump and jet vortexattractor 2800 showing the air guide vanes 2804 in the jet area 2802 indetail. The pump area 2801, described above, resides immediately belowthe jet area 2802. The air guide vanes 2804 are disposed in betweeninner air guide 2805 and outer air guide 2806. Arrows 2803 indicate theairflow through air guide vanes 2804.

[0200]FIG. 28C depicts the airflow 2803 created by the air pump and jetvortex attractor. It follows the standard vortex attractor pattern byspiraling upwards and then falling downwards to the center to berecirculated by the centrifugal pump.

[0201] Tests on such a vortex attractor 2800 show that it has a greaterattraction over most of the operating range, in terms of ounces perwatt, than a conventional vortex attractor impeller of the same sizewhen operating in contact with the attracted surface. The results aregraphed in FIG. 29. The conventional impeller has to be spaced from thesurface to avoid contact with the rotating parts. The new system retainsits attraction efficiency in terms of ounces per watt as the degree ofattraction, in ounces, increases. This trend is seen via line 2902. Thestandard system loses efficiency as the amount of attraction increases.This trend is seen via line 2901.

[0202] In this example, the air pump and jet attractor has aS degree airejection angle. With such a low ejection angle the efficiency falls offvery rapidly with spacing from the attracted surface. Tests with variousexit angles show that an angle of between 20 and 30 degrees provides thebest attraction efficiencies with normal spacings between the air ductand the attracted surface. The efficiency is only one half of that for aconventional impeller type attractor. The reason for this may lie in thecomparative sizes of the vortex attractor impeller, with blades out tothe inner edge of the containing ring, and the air pump and jet systemwith its much smaller centrifugal pump impeller. When the performance iscompared with that of a vortex impeller of the same size as thecentrifugal pump impeller, the efficiencies are comparable.

[0203] The conventional vortex attractor impeller design has beendeveloped over a long period of time, and the latest designs have beenoptimized to minimize parasitic modes. The air pump and jet attractorrepresents an embodiment of such a system, and it is projected that theperformance can be improved. The system performance, when in contactwith a flat surface, is very high.

[0204] If the air pump is separated from the air output guides, the twoparts may be treated separately. The pump area (2801 in FIG. 28A) may bea separate unit, connected by ducts to the jet area (2802 in FIG. 28A).The jet area, with its air guide vanes, has no moving parts and may bemade to flexibly conform to a surface contour. In the following, thepump area will be ignored to simplify the description of airflow betweenthe jet area and the attracted surface.

[0205]FIG. 30 shows a section of the flexible jet area 3006 operatingclose to a concave surface 3002. Air 3005 from the pump area flowsbetween the guide vanes 3004, which projects it into the space betweenthe vanes 3004 and the attracted surface 3002 at an acute angle. Theresultant airflow 3003 in the space is a cylindrical vortex as in theclassic vortex attractor, but differs in that it is contained betweentwo curved surfaces instead of two flat surfaces. The vertical componentof the toroidal vortex between the jet area and the curved surface has acurvature that produces a lifting force at the jet area rim. This force,the only one in vortex attractor theory that may be attributed toBernoulli, only acts on the small output jet cross section, and is smallcompared with the attraction produced by the low pressure stagnant airwithin the body of the attractor.

[0206]FIG. 31 shows the airflow when a flexible jet area 3106 operatesclose to a convex surface 3102. Air 3105 from the pump area flowsbetween the guide vanes 3104, which projects it into the space betweenthe vanes 3104 and the attracted surface 3102 at an acute angle. Theresultant airflow 3103 in the space is a cylindrical vortex as in theclassic vortex attractor, but differs in that it is contained betweentwo curved surfaces instead of two flat surfaces. The difference betweenthis and the former concave case is the vertical curvature of thecylindrical vortex between the jet area and the surface. In this case,the curvature acts to push the rim area of the vortex attractor awayfrom the convex surface. As before, this force is small when comparedwith the attractive force provided by the stagnant low pressure airwithin the body of the attractor.

[0207] These two cases, concave and convex surfaces, show that there islittle difference in vortex attractor operation between flat and curvedsurfaces, and that the additional forces due to surface curvature aresmall and confined to the rim.

[0208] While it may appear difficult at first sight, vortex attractoroperation is quite practical around a right angle corner. This isbecause the attractor operation relies on a vortex being establishedbetween the attractor rim and the attracted surface. Providing that theair maintains its velocity as its direction is abruptly changed in thecorner, the low pressure that the vortex generates remains constant, anddepends only on the air speed and the radius of curvature in the planeof the surface.

[0209]FIG. 32 shows attractor operation around an inside right anglecorner 3202. The diagram assumes that the jet area 3201 can be madeflexible enough to traverse a right angle bend. Airflow 3205 through theair guide vents 3204 is normal on either side of the corner area 3202.At the corner region 3202, it has to change direction abruptly. There isno reason to believe that the air 3205 will go around the corner. Whatwill occur is that air will impact the corner head on and spread out inall directions. The airflow will re-form after the corner as air isblown out of the guide vanes 3204. The net result is a good vortex flow3203 except close to the corner 3202, where air will be able to passinto the low pressure central area. The amount of air leaking in dependson the geometry of the jet area and how closely it can conform to thecorner 3202. A corner air leak is not intolerable, but will lead to adrop in attraction efficiency. It is projected that this efficiency losswill be of the order of 20 percent, and is subject to test and analysis.

[0210]FIG. 33 shows the airflow around an outside corner 3302. Thiswould appear to be simpler due to the greater ease in bending the jetarea 3301 around the corner 3302. The resulting vortex airflow 3303crashes head on into the jets in the corner region 3302, and there is agap until it is re-established by airflow 3305 through the jets 3304after the corner 3302. The break in the vortex shield allows air intothe low pressure central area, resulting in a similar attractionefficiency drop to the previous case.

[0211] The flexible jet vortex attractor is projected to operate oncurved surfaces and around corners as a single unit, which multiplerigid impeller attractors are unable to do without added complexity.Traversing corners will result in a manageable loss of efficiency, andis not sufficiently great to prevent compensation by a moderate increaseof power to the centrifugal air pump. Attraction may be maintained bycontrolling the air pump power to support a constant low pressure in thecentral area, in order to maintain the lift when operating on a ceiling,or to provide sufficient traction for wheel grip when operating on awall.

[0212] Having the air pump separated from the output air guide systemreduces the overall efficiency to about one half of that for aconventional impeller type vortex attractor. This is to be comparedagainst an assembly of three or more conventional attractors required tosuccessfully traverse corners, with corresponding increases in power indoing so. As vortex attractor efficiency increases with size, one largerattractor approximately the same overall surface area as aninterconnected group of smaller ones may potentially be twice asefficient.

[0213] With this considered, a single air pump and jet attractor is, ata minimum, as efficient as an assembly of multiple attractors occupyingthe same space. The increased power requirement to traverse corners ismuch less for the separate air pump and jet system than for the multiplestandard attractors. The control is very simple, as the low pressureinside the new attractor will hold the edges down in order to followcurves and corners without the need for automatic change of physicalparameters. An additional advantage of the flexible attractor platformis that it is less susceptible to damage when dropped.

[0214] The difficulty in designing an air pump and jet vortex attractorlies in conceiving a flexible jet area that will closely follow corners,and in efficiently moving air through the system.

[0215] As conceived, a single unit mobile flexible vortex attractorconcept is very attractive in its geometric simplicity, simplicity ofcontrol, and compactness. The detailed design issues must be addressed,however, preliminary concepts regarding a possible approach arediscussed herein.

[0216]FIG. 34 shows the top view of a flexible platform 3400 surroundedby a hollow skirt 3401 containing air guide vanes. Through a pumppowered by motor 3405, air is blown down through the skirt 3401, whichforms the jet area, and sets up the vortex attractor airflow pattern.Air is sucked out of the center of the flexible platform 3400 to bepumped back through the skirt 3401. The platform 3401, or chassis, ishinged 3402 at intervals in order to follow surface bends. The hinges3402 must be spaced close enough so that the skirt 3401 follows closelyaround both inside and outside corners. For the drive system, a wheel3403 is needed at the end of each hinge 3402 line in order to supportthe skirt 3401 close to the attracted surface. The skirt 3401 may touchthe surface, and will do so when negotiating corners, but it ispreferred to be separated for normal operation in order to reducerolling friction and to minimize wear. The device may translate alongaxis 3404.

[0217] Such a chassis with vortex attractor jets in a flexible hollowskirt, wheels and a wheel drive system is quite possible. Adding an airpump to it poses problems because the chassis flexes beneath it. Whenrounding an inside corner, the air pump diameter can be no greater than70 percent of the overall diameter or it will catch on the wallsurfaces. Also, the center will be high above the chassis center.Conversely, when rounding an outside corner, the center of the air pumpwill be close to the chassis center but the edges will be far from theflexible skirt.

[0218] This problem may be solved by using a multiple air pumps aroundthe skirt so that the pump assembly as a whole flexes with the chassis.However, a number of small air pumps are not as efficient as one largeone, so this solution leads to efficiency loss. Another solution is tohave a single large air pump, the size of the chassis, and have it flexwith the chassis. A centrifugal pump can be made this way by using aflexible back plate guided by rollers. The degree of flexing need not beas great as that of the skirt. The flexible centrifugal air pump conceptmay be extended to a flexible vortex impeller that could have a higheroverall efficiency if the back plate can be made to flex sufficiently.This concept would require a separate containing ring that is rigidlyconnected to the chassis sections and may be allowed to touch theattracted surface.

[0219]FIGS. 35A and 35B illustrate an equivalent vortex attractor 3500and vacuum attractor 3506, respectively. Vortex attractor 3500 attractsitself to flat surface 3501 and in this example comprises a motor 3503that is coupled to an impeller comprising sixteen blades 3505, each 0.4inches square. The blades 3505 are circumferentially surrounded by acontaining ring 3502 of a 2.5 inch diameter. Furthermore, backplate 3504provides support for the containing ring 3502 and also serves to reduceparasitic flow patterns. Alternatively, vacuum attractor 3506 does notutilize a containing ring 3502 as in the vortex attractor 3500. Thevacuum attractor 3506 comprises a motor 3503 coupled to an impellercomprising sixteen blades 3505, each 0.4 inches square. A backplate 3504provides structural integrity and reduces parasitic flow. A flange 3507equal in width to a blade 3505, sits circumferentially above the blades3505. Coupled to flange 3507 is a tube 3508 having a length of one footand a diameter of 1.5 inches. The tube then expands to terminal section3509, where it is 2.5 inches in diameter. There, vacuum attractor 3506is attracted to flat surface 3501.

[0220] Now, referring to FIG. 36, the performance of a vacuum attractoris compared to a vortex attractor via a graph. Line 3600 shows theefficiency of the vortex attractor as a function of the spacing abovethe attracted surface. Line 3601 shows the efficiency of the vacuumattractor as a function of the spacing above the attracted surface. Fromthe graph it is clear that the vacuum attractor performs at half theefficiency of the vortex attractor when the gap is 0.05 inches. It isalso clear that in order to limit power input to the impeller, the spacebetween the vacuum impeller and the surface cannot exceed 0.05 inches.

[0221] The vacuum attractor has essentially stationary air within theskirt volume (i.e., the tube sections 3509 and 3508 of FIG. 35B) and sois able to operate on any surface shape provided that the gap betweenthe skirt and the surface is kept less than approximately 0.05 inches.At this spacing the performance is similar to that of a vortex attractorat a gap of 0.50 inches—an entire order of magnitude greater. Clearly,this can hardly be considered desirable. However, it is much simpler tofit a flexible skirt to a vacuum attractor. In this arrangement, it ispossible for a vacuum attractor to approach the performance of a vortexattractor while traversing a corner. Thus, vacuum attraction shouldlegitimately be considered for cornering.

[0222]FIGS. 37 and 38 illustrate a combined vortex and vacuum attractortraversing an inside corner 3700 and outside corner 3800, respectively.The attractor consists of a motor 3703, impeller 3702 and flexible skirt3701. When fully extended, the flexible skirt 3701 transforms theoperation of the attractor from a vortex attractor to a vacuumattractor. The flexible skirt 3701 is mounted circumferentially withinthe blades of the impeller 3702. When the flexible skirt 3701 is fullyretracted the operation automatically returns to that of a conventionalvortex attractor. Thus, this system can automatically transform into avacuum attractor when traversing corners to maximize performance. Whentraversing a corner, the vortex impeller 3702 acts as a vacuum pump toremove air filtering past the skirt 3701. Vortex action around theimpeller end of the skirt 3701 prevents air from entering around theblades of the impeller 3702.

[0223] Because the vortex attractor performance is superior to thevacuum attractor performance under most conditions, it is desirable toextend vortex operation as far as possible. Flexible jet attractors,such as those disclosed supra are capable of contouring themselvesaround curved surfaces and effect vortex attraction. However, thesesystems cannot easily accommodate a 90 degree bend. Alternatively,flexible impeller designs are considered. Flexible impellers, however,would always by limited by a minimum radius of curvature. Thus,combining one of these two systems-the jet attraction or a flexibleimpeller-with vacuum attraction would result in a configuration capableof reliably traversing 90 degree bend.

[0224] When a flexible system is used in combination with a flexibleskirt, the combination extends vortex action and eases restraints onskirt to operating surface gap. Referring to FIGS. 39 and 40, we seesuch a system traversing an inside corner 3900 and an outside corner4000, respectively. Such a system comprises a flexible impeller 3902, amotor 3902 coupled to said flexible impeller 3902 and a flexible skirt3901. Vortex attraction is in operation where the impeller (or jet)system is close to the attracted surface. Where it deviates away fromthe surface, the flexible skirt 3901 fills the gab to maintain thevacuum. Vortex airflow will follow the impeller without any abruptdirection changes. In the effort of clarity, the mounting frame forarranging the motor 3903, impeller 3902 (or, jets) and skirt 3901 is notshown. It should be noted that present embodiment will follow thecontour of a corner 3900 or 4000 as close as possible, bearing in mindthe limitations on the radius of curvature of the materials employed.

[0225] Finally, the use of vacuum attraction suggest the use of a vacuumseal to park an attractor in place. FIG. 41 depicts suction cupoperation of a vortex attractor. A conventional vortex attractorcomprises blades 4105 and backplate 4101 coupled to motor 4106.Surrounding the vortex attractor is an outer shield 4103 that terminateswith flexible seal 4102. The seal 4102 allows the vortex attractor topark against a flat surface 4101. The principle of operation is verysimilar to the system of FIGS. 37 and 38 which use a skirt that extendsaround the impellers. The seal 4102 maintains a higher than ambient airpressure at the outer ends of impeller blades 4105 while the innerpressure is sufficiently low to hold the attractor firmly against thesurface 4101. Thus, the seal 4102 effectively prevents high pressure airfrom escaping. This limits the low pressure that can be achieved withinthe outer shield 4103. Thus, to alleviate this problem, it iscontemplated that a one-way valve could be added to the outer casing4103 to let air in, but not out.

[0226] While the present invention has been described with reference toone or more preferred embodiments, which embodiments have been set forthin considerable detail for the purposes of making a complete disclosureof the invention, such embodiments are merely exemplary and are notintended to be limiting or represent an exhaustive enumeration of allaspects of the invention. The scope of the invention, therefore, shallbe defined solely by the following claims. Further, it will be apparentto those of skill in the art that numerous changes may be made in suchdetails without departing from the spirit and the principles of theinvention.

I claim:
 1. A device for generating a low pressure region comprising:pump means for generating a cylindrical air flow; jet means, comprisinga plurality of guide means and further acting upon said cylindricalairflow thereby creating a second airflow wherein said second airflowexits said device at an acute angle, said second airflow directedsubstantially toward a surface; wherein said second airflow generates atoroidal vortex, thus generating a low pressure region, and therebyattracting said device to said surface.
 2. A device according to claim 1wherein said jet means are made flexible, thereby allowing said deviceto attract to a non-planar surface.
 3. A dual-mode attractor device forgenerating an attractive force toward a surface comprising: vortexattraction means for generating a vortex flow and a resultant lowpressure area, thereby attracting said device toward a surface; skirtmeans, coupled to said vortex attraction means, for circumferentiallysurrounding said vortex attraction means under certain conditions,thereby eliminating said vortex flow and instead generating a vacuumbetween said device and said surface; wherein said certain conditionscomprise instances wherein said surface is non-planar.
 4. A dual-modeattractor device for generating an attractive force toward a surfacecomprising: vortex attraction means for generating a vortex flow and aresultant low pressure area, thereby attracting said device toward asurface, said vortex attraction means comprising drive means coupled toa flexible impeller, said flexible impeller circumferentially surroundedby a flexible skirt having a certain height; adjustable skirt means,coupled to said flexible skirt, for increasing said height of saidflexible skirt under certain conditions, thereby eliminating said vortexflow and instead generating a vacuum between said device and saidsurface; wherein said certain conditions comprise instances wherein saidsurface is non-planar.